MR Whitelegg (letters, June 14) refers to Bournemouth’s council housing as a “shambles”.

Our housing department is now recognised as being one of the best in the country and has always benefited from high levels of investment, excellent management and very high tenant satisfaction.

The council owns in excess of 5,000 properties, with only a relatively few being sold under “right to buy”.

The Council for many years has had cross-party support for a key priority of the provision of more affordable housing.

With a waiting list in excess of 8,000 families, it has no shortage of prospective tenants – and additional future rental income. Currently the extremely healthy Housing Revenue Account has annual income of over £18m – but nearly £4m is sent to the Government.

That payment will stop on completion of the proposed buy-out but the rental income will steadily increase.

It makes absolute economic sense to carry out this deal as far as Bournemouth is concerned. The Council is considering its funding source but a decision has not yet been made.

1000 properties over a 30 year programme is equivalent to 30 – 40 properties per year. Average delivery (although significantly less at the moment) is between 700 and 800 properties a year.

Where possible the additional homes will be built on existing Council-owned land throughout the Borough.

Yes – every Council, including those listed, that owns social housing is being compelled to complete the buy-out – which will boost the Treasury’s coffers by in excess of £20billion.

Cllr Peter Charon, Leader