Cynics might scoff at the award of 'Beacon Status' to City of York Council. A Labour government praising a Labour authority could be seen as just the latest triumph of the spin doctors.

In this case, however, the national recognition is well deserved. York has long boasted an efficient housing department. Local government minister Hilary Armstrong was so impressed that she chose the city as a base to hand out all the Beacon awards today.

The greatest achievement of the council's housing department is the way in which it places tenants at the heart of the process. It would be easier for officials to concentrate on the bricks and mortar; to work out a maintenance programme that was cheap and cheerful and could be imposed on every council property city-wide.

Instead, they treat residents as individuals and keep them fully involved. The house may belong to the council but officials know that is the tenants' home, and ensure they have a say in how it is renovated.

This policy, known as Tenants' Choice, has proved popular. In our case study tonight, one woman had her heating and windows upgraded, then her kitchen rebuilt and restyled to her taste, all through Tenants' Choice.

This involvement of residents was also key in the transformation of one of York's estates. Bell Farm had a notorious reputation until its regeneration based on a residents-council partnership. Dozens of visitors, including officers from other local authorities and, most notably, the Duke of York, have been impressed by the Bell Farm renaissance.

The award of Beacon Status to York council housing department reflects the hard work of everyone, from the administrators to the skilled council craftsmen, whose year-round work makes a significant improvement to the quality of life of many tenants.

Beacon Status might sound like something of a gimmick. But there is nothing superficial about giving praise where it is due. And today's news can only further enhance York's national reputation.

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