COUNCIL chiefs are urging tenants to give the thumbs-up to the proposed transfer of the borough's housing stock to a new, non-profit housing association, Helena Housing... and they pledge it will NOT lead to huge increases in rents.

The transfer, which would see Helena Housing managing and owning St Helens' 15,000 council homes, is currently waiting for Government approval. If it is given the green light, then tenants will decide whether to go ahead with the change in a postal ballot in the autumn.

The council is keen to proceed with the transfer as it believes the switch to a housing association would improve the quality of housing in the St Helens area.

Steve Moore, head of Housing Services for St Helens Council, said: "One of the classic problems of local government is the lack of money available -- the strict rules means a financial straitjacket". But, according to Steve, the ability of Helena Housing to borrow money from banks and building societies would enable the association to invest in a modernisation programme.

A council statement claims that, after transfer, tenants would benefit from a massive programme of repairs and modernisation for their homes. It adds that around £200 million would be spent in the first five years and a total of nearly £600 million in the next 30 years.

According to the council the five key benefits of the transfer would be as follows:

Homes would be repaired and improved.

Rents would remain affordable.

Tenants would have much greater representation and have an equal say on the Board of Helena Housing.

Rights and entitlements would be protected.

Major contribution to regeneration in the borough

Housing Services have also refuted fears that the transfer would result in a dramatic rise in rents and say that tenant representatives on Helena Housing's management board would ensure their interests are protected.

The Government and the Housing Corporation, the Government's housing regulator, would also monitor Helena Housing.

Meanwhile, the council is planning to stage roadshows at 21 venues across the borough which will give tenants the opportunity to ask questions, seek information and talk to advisors on a one-to-one basis. Newsletters and written information will be issued to tenants, and a video will be produced which will explain the transfer. A Freephone number has been set up and any tenants who need advice or information can ring 0800 953 0218.