Local Lettings Policy - What's the latest?

Local Lettings Policy Update

What we’ve done so far

We believe that where you live matters a lot, and that when looking for a house, everyone should have the best chance possible to find a home that not only meets their needs, but also provides the security that allows them to stay in the place that they call home. This should include all types of housing need: those who own their home or rent privately but also people who are on the housing register. 

Unfortunately, the current system for allocating housing to people on the housing register does not take into account the existing location of those residents. This can result in the only suitable accommodation available - based on their banding - being located outside their neighbourhood, community and support networks. Further still, if you fail to bid for a “suitable” property available, you could be deemed no longer in housing need and removed from the register. 

This is why we have made the issue around affordable rented housing allocation central to our engagement on community-led housing. 

One way to help people in housing need to stay in the area they live is through a ‘Local Lettings Policy’ (LLP). Over the past year, we’ve had many conversations with residents and launched a questionnaire around a Local Lettings Policy (see here) to understand the levels of support and areas of priority for Lockleaze. 

What’s the Latest?

We’ve had more than 50 responses to the LLP questionnaire, which is a fantastic start! 

The vast majority (84%) believed a LLP should apply to the development, with the remaining 16% unsure. 100% of respondents agreed that allocating social rented homes should take local connections into consideration.

Using the information provided to us through this engagement, we have written an initial draft policy, in relation to our Community-led Housing project at the end of Turner Gardens. We wanted to share this draft policy to let you know that the LLP continues to progress and show you that your comments and opinions have directly shaped this policy proposal.

You can find a copy of the draft policy here 

What will Happen Next?

We will continue to speak with people on this issue, and intend to send a printed copy of the questionnaire to everyone on the housing register in Lockleaze.

It is always worth remembering that any Local Lettings Policy must be adopted by the Local Authority.

 We’ve had initial discussions with Bristol City Council who have provided comments on the draft policy, highlighting the areas that will need further work and engagement. There is certainly more work to be done to provide more details and ensure the policy is deliverable and fair.

However, the great news is that through our conversations, voices of residents and the amount of development taking place in Lockleaze, BCC will be exploring the possibility of creating a neighbourhood-wide policy that would apply to a proportion of new Council houses for rent.

Please do keep an eye for updates or get in touch with any questions you may have, at alex@lockleazent.co.uk