Have YOUR say on Sevenoaks' future housing policy: Consultation launched

Sevenoaks District Council needs YOUR help in deciding its new housing policy.

Residents are encouraged to have their say on the District's priorities for social housing and the type and length of social housing tenancies.

Sevenoaks District Council is reviewing its social housing allocation policy and writing a tenancy strategy and as a result has launched consultation on proposed changes, which is open until 9am on Wednesday 16 January 2012.

The Council's proposals would alter the way local housing associations let out their properties and also the types of tenancies on offer and would result in changes to the way Register applicants are prioritised to bid for properties. 

The proposals would also affect who can join the Housing Register. 

Under the proposals, priority would be given to people with a local connection, those leaving the armed forces and people working or actively seeking voluntary or paid work.

People on the Housing Register who are offered a property in the future may only be given a tenancy for five years. Existing tenants would not be affected.

The Council's Portfolio holder for Housing, Cllr Carol Clark, says: "As part of our review of the allocation policy and our proposed tenancy strategy , we want to make sure that local people or those who work here are given higher priority on the housing register. We encourage everyone to take part in the consultation and are keen to hear local people's views ."

To comment on these two proposals, visit the Council's website www.sevenoaks.gov.uk/housing

Residents who would like to know more about proposed changes should call 01732 227000 and ask for Housing or e-mail: housing@sevenoaks.gov.uk