Riviera Housing Trust Limited (RHT) is a not-for-profit social landlord registered with the Housing Corporation.  It was set up to take the transfer of housing stock from Torbay Council.  2887 flats and houses were transferred to RHT, together with 50 members of staff in February 2001.  The properties are spread throughout Torbay, in the towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham.  It is a predominantly urban authority with a population of 123,400 rising to 200,000 in the holiday season. 

The Torbay area is one of inward migration. It has an ageing population as people settle in the area attracted by its weather and location.  Torbay gives an outward appearance of affluence, but contains areas of real deprivation.  Unemployment is well above the national average and average weekly wages are 31% below the average for England.  Work in the seasonal tourism industry contributes to this picture.

Housing Needs in Torbay

The Torbay area has very high levels of both owner occupation and private rented housing.  Only 3% of the stock is rented housing owned by the Council and housing associations.  Property prices are boosted under the twin pressures of the tourist industry and the demand for seasonal accommodation and second homes.

Affordable rented accommodation is therefore a key issue for Torbay. The combination of the high rate of population growth in the area, low earnings, low mobility and high open market prices results in demand for affordable rented housing far outstripping supply.  Accommodation for people with support needs does not meet requirements, neither in the range of accommodation needed nor the volume required.

The Torbay local plan has recommended that up to 30% of local plan provision to the year 2011 should be made available for affordable housing schemes, primarily for rent but also including shared ownership.

Tenant support and involvement

Tenants voted overwhelmingly in favour of the transfer from Torbay Council, on the basis that RHT would have the resources to carry out significant improvements to their homes.  The not-for-profit structure, based on the local housing company model, provides the opportunity to offer tenants a greater say in how their homes are managed through representation on RHT's Board, tenants' participation panel and a range of other forums.