Clackmannanshire Council Online

Consultation on Housing Allocation Policy

The Council is proposing to make changes to our Housing Allocation Policy which we think will result in it being more relevant to our communities, tenants and applicants on the waiting list.

Before making any changes to the policy it is important to us that we understand the views of our local residents and communities. That's why we're running a consultation on ClacksWeb to hear your views on issues that you feel need to be reflected in the Housing Allocation Policy.

Since our current policy was introduced in 2005 there have been some national changes that we need to consider when reviewing the policy.

National issues are:

• Reform of the Welfare Benefits System
• Introduction of Scottish Government Allocations Good Practice Guide
• Requirement to house all unintentionally homeless applicants
• Requirement to deliver a full housing options service to people who require affordable housing
• The Scottish Social Housing Charter and the new Scottish Housing Regulatory Framework

Councillor Les Sharp, Housing, Health and Care Convenor, said: "Earlier this year we carried out extensive consultation on the Clackmannanshire Housing Strategy. As a result we know that amongst the priorities for local people is addressing homelessness, making best use of current housing stock and maximising choice for people looking for housing in the area.

"We currently have around 2000 people waiting for a home. A significant proportion of those registered have no realistic chance of being allocated accommodation due to the lack of supply. We allocated 383 properties last year and our list increases by around 120 applicants a month.

"The existing allocation policy requires updating to reflect the changes in legislation. It also needs to ensure that those in greatest need continue to be given priority."

The consultation closes on 26th November 2012.