New 'fairer and more effective' system for allocating council homes
Cabinet councillors today (Wednesday, Feb 11) approved a new system for allocating council homes to residents on the housing register, to match people more effectively with the properties they need.
Under the new Property Match approach, the council will take a more proactive role in matching residents with the most suitable homes for their specific needs. This change aims to reduce the time properties remain empty and ensure that households - particularly those in urgent need or temporary accommodation - are housed more quickly.
By streamlining the application process and introducing clearer priority bands, the council aims to prioritise those with the greatest local connection and the most pressing need.
Councillor Peter Diplock, Cabinet Member for Housing and Homelessness, said: "With demand for council housing far outstripping supply, I welcome the introduction of this fairer and more effective system for the benefit of everyone who relies on it. Property Match will allow us to help those in greatest need more quickly, reduce time spent processing bids, and make better use of our existing housing stock."
The criteria for the housing register are also being revised to ensure that the limited number of available homes is reserved for those who truly need them. Stricter local connection rules and updated financial thresholds are being introduced, ensuring that social housing remains a safety net for the town's most vulnerable residents.
Public consultation showed strong support, with 75% of respondents agreeing with the introduction of the Property Match model. Other proposed changes - including simplified priority bands, clearer local connection rules and new income and debt thresholds - were also backed by the majority of respondents.
Councillor Diplock added: "The consultation made it clear that residents want a simpler process and a more realistic experience. This new policy delivers that, while still keeping important elements of choice, such as the ability to express preferred areas and decline two suitable offers without penalty."
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