Manchester City Council set to confirm plan to shut ALMO

An officer’s report set to go before councillors said a September review by consultancy Campbell Tickell found that bringing housing services back in house could save “at least” £77m over that period.

The review concluded that Northwards “has too many weaknesses in terms of governance, performance structure and delivery” to continue operating in its current manner.

Closing the ALMO is expected to cost £1.48m, including legal costs, staff transfers and pension arrangements.

More than 350 people are employed by Northwards Housing, with the officer’s report noting that Campbell Tickell recommended “a downsizing of a number of areas with a reduction in posts”.

The new service – which is likely to retain the Northwards branding – is expected to launch in July, with the ALMO ceasing trading at the same time.

Domestic abuse, debt management and jobs and training services provided by Northwards will be kept, the council has said, while also promising to strengthen tenant influence over the management of their homes.

Suzanne Richards, executive member for housing and regeneration at Manchester City Council, said: “Northwards Housing has been at the heart of north Manchester communities for 15 years and I would like to thank them for their service to the city.

“Our aim when we first established the ALMO was and remains ensuring that we can deliver the best possible service and standards for tenants.

“In bringing the service back into the council we are keen to ensure that those areas of best practice, which have had a significant and positive impact on local communities, are built upon.”

Northwards is one of a dwindling number of ALMOs across England.

East Kent Housing was wound up in October, while Kirklees Council opted to shut its ALMO in the same month and The Gateshead Housing Company’s fate was sealed in November.