The Maryhill-based Association has been ‘highly commended’ in the ‘Outstanding Landlord of the Year’ category at the UK Housing Excellence Awards.

Widely recognised as the leading awards in the sector, this has been a record-breaking year for entries with Queen’s Cross competing against 414 other social landlords for the top prize.

Queen’s Cross manages 4,300 social housing homes in the north of Glasgow.

“Up against so many quality entries it is a real honour to come so close to being named the best social landlord in the country. Real credit has to go to our staff whose innovation in improving the quality of life for our tenants continues to be outstanding,” said Queen’s Cross chief executive, Shona Stephen.

Over the past year the Association has invested £14 million in building and improving homes. This has included more than 100 new homes along the Forth Clyde Canal and 76 flats and houses elsewhere in the city.

In addition it is nearing completion of upgrades to 300 multi-storey flats and the installation of green energy ground source heat systems to 448 more.

The Association also impressed judges with the quality of its repairs service. Of tenants surveyed 95% were happy with the service they received over the past year. In total 96% of repairs were completed satisfactorily first time.

But Queen’s Cross is more than just a housing provider. The judges highlighted the association’s ground-breaking approach to tenant welfare.

Initiatives like the Poverty Charter that highlighted the extent of social deprivation in the area, their Unsung Heroes Award for outstanding tenants along with initiatives for ethnic minority engagement. Their work with the young homeless, refugees and older people were also singled out for praise.

Overall the judges said of Queen’s Cross: “This inspiring organisation has delivered tangible improvements for its community over 40 years. It has transformed the community through its commitment and its ambition.”

“Recognition for our work on the UK stage is huge, but we are not resting on our laurels. This coming year will see a further upsurge in activities with plans to build nearly 600 new homes on vacant land in our area,” added Shona.

“Working in partnership with Glasgow City Council and Scottish Canals, we are looking at a masterplan to regenerate the whole Forth and Clyde Canal corridor in the city.”

The awards ceremony, hosted by the Chartered Institute of Housing, was held in London. Queen’s Cross were pipped at the post by Amicus Horizon which manages homes in the South East of England.