Newcastle Labour has strengthened its focus on housing by creating a dedicated Housing portfolio in the City Council’s Cabinet.
Cllr Linda Hobson has joined the Cabinet with responsibility for Housing, giving the issue a dedicated voice at the heart of the council’s leadership.
The new portfolio reflects the growing importance of housing as Newcastle works to increase the supply of affordable homes, improve existing housing and respond to the changing needs of residents across the city.
Cllr Hobson will oversee the council’s work on housing delivery and will work with partners to increase housing choice for Newcastle residents.
Her responsibilities will also include the council’s work to prevent homelessness and support residents who are at risk of losing their homes.
Newcastle has developed a strong prevention-focused approach to homelessness, bringing together council services and partner organisations to identify problems earlier and help residents before they reach crisis point.
The new Housing portfolio will also support Labour’s ambitions to deliver more affordable and specialist housing, including homes suitable for older and disabled residents and people with additional support needs.
Housing will sit alongside the council’s wider work to regenerate neighbourhoods, bring land back into productive use and support Newcastle’s continued growth.
The changes form part of Labour’s new Cabinet arrangements following the council’s Annual Meeting.
Cllr Joyce McCarty continues as Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Resources, while Cllr Ged Bell has responsibility for Employment and Investment and Cllr Arlene Ainsley leads on Transport and Air Quality.
Cllr Linda Hobson, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “Having a safe, secure and affordable home is fundamental to people’s quality of life and I am delighted to be taking on this new role.
“Labour wants Newcastle to be a city where people have real housing choice, with good-quality homes that meet the different needs of our residents.
“That means building more affordable homes, improving existing housing and making sure we have specialist accommodation for people who need it.
“It also means continuing our work to prevent homelessness by intervening early and supporting people before they reach crisis point.
“I look forward to working with residents, housing providers and our partners across Newcastle to make sure we deliver the homes our city needs.”