The council reviewed its housing allocations policy earlier this year to provide better access to affordable housing for those who need it most.
The policy is now open for public consultation until Friday 2nd October, giving people 8 weeks to submit their views on the proposed changes.
The 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, moving homeless households from band C to B to make it easier for them to be moved from temporary housing into permanent accommodation, and reducing 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 the council, said:
“We’re confident that the proposed changes to the housing allocation policy will make sure we use the accommodation we have available efficiently, to provide homes to those who need them most.
Local, affordable housing is a priority for us. The demand for housing has never been higher and we know how important it is for local people to have access to affordable housing for their families.
The policy helps ensure we 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.
Consultation is open until Friday 2nd October, and we encourage people to have their say on how the proposed changes could affect them.”
For more information about the housing allocation policy visit: www.swale.gov.uk/housing-allocations-policy
Swale Borough Council
