Top marks for Oldham Rochdale Pathfinder

The Oldham Rochdale Housing Market Renewal Pathfinder is 'performing strongly' according to the Audit Commission.

The rating is the highest that the independent watchdog can hand out and a spokesperson for the Pathfinder, which is responsible for transforming housing in neighbourhoods in Rochdale, has welcomed the result.

Director Alastair Graham said: “This confirms that the Pathfinder is doing an excellent job to tackle the deep-seated problems in the housing market across the two boroughs. We were assessed against a wide range of criteria during the week-long visit, and we are delighted to have been given the highest possible overall rating.

“The research and evaluation we carry out is informing our decisions and our high quality new build developments and refurbishments are having really positive impacts on people’s lives.” 

Rochdale Council Lead Member for Regeneration, Cllr Mohammad Sharif, who sits on the Pathfinder Board said: “This report is hugely encouraging, recognising the great progress the Pathfinder is making in tackling the challenges faced by the housing market in Rochdale. Many local residents are benefiting from the transformation that the pathfinder and its partners are bringing to the borough.”

The pathfinder was praised for developing a sense of community within its neighbourhoods and for its efficiency and effectiveness, delivery and impact.

The report claims that the high quality new builds and refurbishment of properties is making a visible impact on people's lives.