Brighton and Hove City Council has appointed Darren Levy as the new interim director of housing regeneration for a 12-month term. This appointment follows a report from the government’s Regulator of Social Housing, which highlighted the need for significant improvements in the council’s role as a social housing landlord.
The council, which owns approximately 12,100 social housing homes, was found to have around 3,600 homes without a current electrical condition report and an additional 600 without a valid electrical certificate. Councillor Gill Williams, cabinet member for housing and new homes, emphasized the importance of this report as an opportunity for the administration to make essential changes to meet residents’ needs.
In his new role, Levy will focus on the regeneration of the council’s aging housing stock, working under Genette Laws, corporate director for housing, care, and wellbeing. He will lead the effort to build a team and implement a plan for refurbishing and regenerating the council’s large panel system high-rise blocks to create safe and modern homes for residents.
Levy, a Brighton and Hove resident with a background in housing services, expressed his enthusiasm for joining the council at such a critical time. He reflected on his early career as a housing officer for Brighton Borough Council and is eager to contribute to the regeneration efforts.
Cllr Gill Williams praised Levy’s appointment, citing his proven track record in delivering housing services and new homes. She reaffirmed the council’s commitment to tackling the housing crisis and improving social housing, expressing confidence in Levy’s leadership for this mission. A council spokesperson added that Levy will collaborate across directorates to ensure the successful regeneration of the city’s housing stock, bringing valuable experience from his previous role as Director of Housing with Newham Council.
