In its simplest form, tenant participation means giving tenants and tenant purchasers a greater say in how their estate is managed and run. Experience elsewhere has shown that successful tenant participation policies and strategies can bring about vast improvements in the quality of life for residents of local authority housing estates.
The Housing Directorate is committed to the development of sustainable communities within our housing estates. To develop communities within housing estates, residents participate with schemes available to ensure their estate becomes a place to be proud of. Our development officer works with the communities to assist with courses, advice, crime and prevention.
Pre-tenancy training courses are held in conjunction with all new housing allocations. These courses have proven to be very worthwhile as they provide information in relation to the tenancy, advice on money management (MABS), environmental awareness, and crime and fire prevention. Residents are encouraged to participate in the management of their estate, to take ownership, and to be proud of where they live.
The Estate Development Officer is working with a large number of resident associations and individuals in assisting with the improving and overall running of the estates. A number of mini orchards have been developed that will be of benefit to all residents. Water Butts are being provided to residents associations for the collection and re-use of rainwater. Information is provided to committees in relation to National Tree Week, National Spring Clean, Heritage and Tree Planting Grants. Funding is provided for agreed projects, through the Estate Development Programme.
Housing Estate Development Awards are presented annually in recognition of the valuable contribution made by residents associations towards the maintenance and development of our housing estates. A number of residents associations have also received recognition in the Tidy Towns Competition.
For more details please contact Wicklow County Council on 0404-20100