INDEPENDENT "tenants' friends" will be appointed as part of a consultation process on sweeping plans for Stockton borough council homes.

The council is working with residents' groups to explain the background to a range of options for securing investment for its stock of 14,000 homes.

One option is the controversial idea of transferring houses to the management of a body outside the authority.

The consultation and borough-wide study of tenants' housing requirements is due for completion next month.

Results of the study will help to shape the future housing strategy, and the council is keen to keep everyone involved and informed.

The tenants' friend, an independent advocate, will be a specialist in housing issues, who will keep tenants up to date with all the options.

Possibilities being examined include transferring stock to another organisation, such as a housing association, or attracting private finance to improve homes. Doubts have been expressed about that policy, condemned as a form of privatisation.

Elaine Corney, assistant director of housing, said: "The problem is that, with the current sources of finance, it would take us years to get through our repairs programme.

"Doing nothing about the repairs is not an option, so we are examining every possible way forward, so we can deliver the best package for our tenants.

"Our minds are completely open and there is a genuine desire from everyone involved to work together for the best outcome."

The idea of the tenants' friend was to bring in someone independent from the authority, to ensure tenants have knowledge and understanding of the choices affecting their homes.

She said other ways of improving life for tenants included Government plans to lay down fairer and more affordable rents, and the council's neighbourhood renewal projects.