Housing Allocation Consultation Coming To An End

People still have a few days to submit their opinion on the proposed changes to Swale Borough Council’s housing allocation policy.

The policy aims to provide a fair and transparent system that prioritises social housing by making efficient use of the homes available, promoting choice to applicants and developing sustainable mixed communities.

Agreed by the council's cabinet for public consultation in June, the eight-week consultation ends this coming Friday, (2nd October).

Proposed changes include tapering income considerations to provide a more realistic approach for single people and larger families that are at opposite ends of the spectrum is up for consideration. Another suggested change is moving homeless households from band C to B to make it easier for them to be moved from temporary housing into permanent accommodation. There is also a proposal to reduce the amount of time a resident is expected to have lived in the area from four to two years.

Cllr Ben J Martin, cabinet member for housing at Swale Borough Council, told SFM News: “We’re hopeful that these proposed changes to the housing allocation policy will have a positive outcome for residents who are in desperate need of social housing. The reduction in time needed in the borough, more realistic approach to income considerations, and changes that make it easier for people experiencing homelessness to move from temporary to permanent housing will prioritise those with the greatest need. Providing local and affordable housing is a key priority to use and we want to hear what local people think. We urge anybody who hasn’t yet taken part to get in touch and let us know your views.”

To find out more about the consumatation and take part visit www.swale.gov.uk/news-and-your-council/consultations/housing-allocations-policy-2020.