In early 2026, the Regulator of Social Housing issued a C2 grading to North Northamptonshire Council following an inspection of social housing homes across Wellingborough and Kettering. This rating means that while the council currently meets core national standards, there are significant weaknesses that require urgent action to protect the interests of local tenants.
The inspection, which took place in December 2025, identified specific failures such as slow responses to non-emergency repairs and weaknesses in how tenant complaints are handled. The regulator also found that the council has not completed all its property surveys and lacks the evidence to show that every home meets the national Decent Homes Standard.
In response to the findings, Council Leader Martin Griffiths said the authority is committed to making housing a top priority and reaching the highest possible standards. Residents in Wellingborough can expect to see an accelerated programme of property inspections and an updated repairs service as the council works to address the issues raised by the regulator.
The housing review arrives as the council considers the sale of the Jacksons Lane car park in Wellingborough for a new building project. The official judgment highlights that the local authority must now show clear improvements in how it maintains its current homes while continuing with these town centre regeneration plans.
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