Housing director leaves Croydon Council just six months after £104,250 role was created

By Tara O’Connor, local democracy reporter

A housing director has left Croydon Council just months after the new role was created in the wake of shocking revelations in Regina Road flats.

Alison Knight joined the authority at the end of May after awful living conditions were exposed in South Norwood.

Families were living in flats thick with mould with water pouring through the ceiling.

An independent investigation recommended creating a new executive director of housing.

Dr Knight was appointed on a temporary contract for an initial six months at a cost of £104,250 to the council.

At the time of her appointment, she said: “I am passionate about delivering excellent services to local people, and this role is a great opportunity to help make sure everyone in council homes feels cared for and receives a really good, responsive experience across our teams.”

According to LinkedIn, Dr Knight has been replaced by David Padfield who started this month after nearly two years in the same role at Hackney Council.

Like Dr Knight he is listed as being interim corporate director of housing meaning his appointment is not a permanent contract.

A council spokesman said: “Alison Knight has left the council to take up a permanent post at another authority – we wish her all the best and are pleased to welcome David Padfield as the new interim director for housing.

“David brings more than 30 years’ experience to the role, and his priority will be continuing to drive forward the important improvements to our housing services for our residents, our tenants and leaseholders.”