Views sought on the way social housing is allocated in West Northants

12 January 2026

Residents are being invited to share their views on proposed changes to make the way social housing is allocated in West Northamptonshire fairer.

All local housing authorities are required by law to have a fair and transparent Housing Allocation Policy, which sets out how social housing is allocated and who qualifies to join the housing register. The policy explains who is eligible for social housing, how priority is assessed, and how available homes are allocated.

While councils are not legally required to regularly review their allocation policies, doing so is recognised as best practice and helps ensure policies remain up to date with changes in legislation, local priorities, and emerging housing needs, while delivering value for money.

The proposed changes come in response to a significant increase in housing applications alongside a limited supply of social homes, which has resulted in a large and growing waiting list. The consultation seeks views on how the housing register should operate in future, with a greater focus on supporting those with the highest housing need.

Key changes as part of the proposals include:

• Applicants currently placed in Band D for deliberately worsening their housing circumstances would have their application cancelled and would only be able to reapply 12 months from the date of removal.
• Some applicants currently in Band A who have received a homelessness decision that is not a Main Duty decision, meaning they are not highest priority, would move to Band B but would still retain their original Band A effective date.
• Applicants who can reasonably meet their housing needs through home ownership or the private rented sector will not qualify for the Housing Register, including those with household incomes above £40,000 (single applicants), £50,000 (single/lone parents) or £60,000 (joint applicants), or with savings, investments or assets of £16,000 or more.

The draft policy also clarifies eligibility criteria to ensure the housing register reflects the reality of demand versus available homes. Applicants who are removed from the register would be supported to consider alternative housing options, including the private rented sector, mutual exchange, and low-cost home ownership schemes.

Demand for social housing continues to far outweigh the number of homes available, and it’s important that our allocation policy is clear, fair and focused on those with the greatest need.

This consultation is about being open and transparent, listening to residents and partners, and making sure our housing register works as effectively as possible for the communities we serve. I would encourage everyone with an interest in housing in West Northamptonshire to take part and share their views.

Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities at WNC

Feedback can be submitted through the Council’s consultation hub before midnight on Sunday 22 February 2026. All feedback received will be reviewed and considered by the Council’s Cabinet before a final decision is made on the new Housing Allocation Policy for West Northamptonshire.