Tendring District Council (TDC) is reassuring residents as it temporarily closes its Housing Register to new applications while improvements are made to the housing allocation system - with urgent housing needs, including homelessness cases, continuing to be processed throughout the period.
The short-term closure is necessary to incorporate changes introduced by the new Housing Allocation Policy, mainly changes on homelessness and new eligibility rules for armed forces personnel and domestic abuse applicants.
These updates will ensure the system is fair, transparent, and fully aligned with changes in legislation.
During this period, all existing applications will remain active and will be reassessed under the new policy to make sure everyone is treated fairly and consistently.
This means that some people’s priority may change. If you are happy with the changes, you do not need to do anything and will remain live on the Housing Register. If you believe the assessment is incorrect, you can request a review in writing.
Properties that become available will continue to be allocated, and urgent housing needs – including homelessness cases – will still be prioritised and processed.
The Housing Register is expected to reopen for new applications by late February, and the council will keep residents informed.
Letters will also be sent to all current applicants explaining what these changes mean for them.
Andy Baker, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “We’re proud of the services we provide to residents, and housing is one of the most important.
“We understand how important this process is for people, which is why we’re taking the time to make sure our system works as well as it possibly can.
“These improvements will help us deliver a fairer and more efficient service for everyone, and we’ll continue to support those in urgent need throughout this process.”
For more information, visit www.tendringdc.gov.uk/content/housing-strategies-policies or contact the Housing Allocations Team at housingallocations@tendringdc.gov.uk.
