“Barbara Shaw

Barbara has worked in housing for more than 15 years. In January 2012 she became Chief Executive of Westward Housing Group which manages 7,000 properties across the south west. Prior to this she worked for The Guinness Partnership and before that, Sovereign Housing. She began her career as a communications specialist and has held positions in the commercial, public and charitable sectors.”

Westward Housing Group’s website states:

“Westward Housing Group is a major housing association in the south west. It encompasses Tarka Housing, Westcountry Housing, Help to Buy South West and Horizon Homes. As a developing landlord, we build new homes across the region, working in partnership with local authorities to rent homes to those in need.”

Most of the Group’s properties are in Devon, and include supported housing, housing for older people and shared ownership housing.

Given the government’s stated policy of supporting only home ownership and converting many rented properties (including those of housing associations) into private ownership, perhaps Ms Shaw should also be asking herself what’s in the devolution deal for her group.

Particularly as the Chair of the LEP, Steve Hindley, is Chairman of the Midas Group – a leading house builder for the private sector.