As a rural district council with high house prices and low average incomes, we are continually looking for opportunities to develop affordable housing schemes for local people. We have several low-cost-to-buy developments being controlled by section 106 planning gain agreements that clearly set out the qualifications for local connection.

We are now trying to develop a fair system to manage the allocation of houses to those who have passed the local connection stage. We feel a "first come, first served" basis may disadvantage those who have no experience of mortgages.

We would welcome any input from local authorities who have already been down this route. Does anyone have any suggestions or methods currently in place?

Source

Housing Today

Postscript

Kate Picknett, housing needs officer, Penwith District Council. kate.picknett@penwith.gov.uk