Angus Council’s housing boss has pledged to deliver a “bespoke” system for the allocation of council houses after a shift in away from the “complicated” one in place for decades.
The authority will move from a points-based register system to choice-based lettings that officials say will empower would-be tenants to make their own informed choices.
The move is part of a drive towards Angus becoming a “digital” council but strategic director Alan McKeown has given a firm assurance the new system will be fair after concerns were raised it might impact on those with special needs or who struggle online.
A council spokesman said: “The common housing register’s points-based system has proved complicated and time-consuming.
“More than 40% of housing offers made to applicants were refused between April 2017 and the end of March this year, where, in many instances, the location and type of property was felt to be unsuitable or unacceptable by people seeking a tenancy.
“These refusals left properties unoccupied for longer periods than is ideal. Our housing team has piloted a successful choice-based lettings approach for a selection of immediately available to let properties.
“This has proved successful and a move to roll-out this more customer-led approach is supported by our housing association partners.
“It is hoped that this, in turn, will improve demand for housing stock, reduce refusal rates and improve the process and overall satisfaction for the house-seeker.”
Arbroath councillor Lois Speed sought an assurance from the director that the vulnerable, those with special needs and tenants who struggle with the online bidding process will not be disadvantaged by the new arrangements.
Mr McKeown said: “I am delighted to be able to give you that assurance.
“All allocations are heavily regulated and we will treat people as individuals – every allocation should be bespoke.
“This isn’t just Angus Council, it includes every local housing association bar one so our tenants should have the widest possible choice.”
The move to the new system will be fully implemented next year.
