Councillor Terry Cutmore, leader of the Council, said: “This result is stunning and I would like to take this opportunity to thank the tenants for the thought and consideration they have given this proposal.”

Graham Woolhouse, Rochford DC’s Corporate Director, External Services, said: “The ballot clearly demonstrates that the Council’s proposal has the support of tenants.

“This is good news for existing and future tenants and for the wider community. It will mean service and home improvements which will benefit the whole community.”

A total of 1,920 tenants were eligible to vote in the postal ballot which was conducted by the Electoral Reform Ballot Services organisation.

The result revealed that 1,234 tenants (82.8%) voted in favour of the proposal and only 257 tenants (17.2%) were against. The turnout was an impressive 78%.

The Council will now seek permission of the Secretary of State to transfer. If this is given, it is expected that the transfer will take place next summer and works will then begin immediately.

Rochford HA, chaired by former Councillor Maureen Vince will have a Board made up of tenants, Councillors and local people, and many of its staff will move across from the Council.

20 December 2006