One of the architects in the creation of Sovereign Housing Association has returned to oversee the landlord’s mission to improve neighbourhoods for thousands of residents across the south.

Rosemary Sanders-Rose OBE was recently appointed chairman of Berkshire’s biggest housing association, and has vowed to increase home ownership opportunities for young people, as well as improve the quality of life for the elderly.

In a distinguished career in local politics, Mrs Sanders-Rose was leader of Newbury District Council when it became only the third local authority in the country to transfer 7100 homes to Sovereign.

Since then, Sovereign has developed an impressive track record, building over 8500 new homes in the last 18 years. And with a wider range of services on offer, such as wardens, 24-hour careline, and neighbour mediation, resident satisfaction has increased to 82%.

She said: “I have been heavily involved in housing for many years, and am extremely proud to have been asked to chair Sovereign, which has a big part to play in tackling the growing housing crisis.

“I’m looking forward to getting out and about and meeting lots of residents, and keep their concerns foremost.”

Mrs Sanders-Rose takes over from former Newbury Building Society Chief Executive Nigel Fleming, who stepped down from the Sovereign board after eight years, including two as chairman.

Managing director Paul Crawford added: “Although our area stretches from Southampton to Oxford, and Bracknell to Plymouth, we are conscious that Newbury is our home town. So it’s fitting that we have appointed someone so well-known in the Newbury area to lead us forward.”

Published 4 June 2007
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