Council backs new lettings and tenancy schemes
TWO new initiatives to improve the way Council accommodation is let and managed have been given the go-ahead by Richmondshire District Council.
At a meeting this week, the Council's Strategy Board backed a new introductory tenancy scheme, which puts new Council tenants "on probation" for the first 12 months of their tenancy.
Under the new scheme, tenants who don't maintain their new tenancy properly or indulge in antisocial behaviour whilst "on probation" will run the risk of having their home taken from them. The scheme will be launched in September.
The Council will also join a new choice-based lettings scheme aimed at simplifying the way Council properties are let, putting housing applicants at the centre of the letting process.
This will mean people on the housing waiting list will proactively apply for vacant Council properties rather than wait until they receive an offer. The scheme, which is currently being developed, will cover most of North Yorkshire with one single housing register and housing application form.
Councillor Bill Glover, the Council's spokesperson for housing, said: "These are two very important initiatives which will change the way we allocate Council accommodation and manage new tenancies.
"The new introductory tenancies will give the Council another tool when tackling antisocial behaviour. The vast majority of our Council tenants look after their homes and respect their neighbours but we need to get tough on the minority who don't."
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