Ashford’s new housing allocations scheme means “local homes for local people”

Ashford Borough Council has endorsed a new policy that gives increased priority to local people when it comes to allocating housing to individuals on its housing register.

The Allocation Scheme sets out new qualifying criteria for those trying to access social housing, as well as more stringent local connection criteria to prioritise “local residents first”. This rule means people must show that they have been resident in the borough for three years – up from the current one-year requirement.

Ashford Borough Council’s Cabinet were told last night (Thurs 11 Dec) that ABC currently has 1,647 individuals on its register waiting for a council home, with latest figures showing that in 2024/25, 326 allocations of social housing were made to people on the register. 

This means that the number of homes available to let is significantly outweighed by the number of people on the register. Combined with the current financial pressures on temporary accommodation (TA) provision, councillors heard that ABC now has the opportunity to ensure that local residents with a housing need are prioritised for a council home.

The Allocation Scheme replaces the Council’s existing Housing Lettings Policy and covers social rented homes, both those owned by the Council and those owned by registered providers.

Housing need criteria has been added, ensuring that only those in need of social rented homes can access them, while ensuring support for key groups, including armed forces personnel, care leavers and people fleeing domestic abuse. 

A new banding methodology will enable waiting time to be considered alongside housing need, through a quota system of property allocation.

These changes allow scope for significant changes in the frequency at which those most in need, including homeless households, are offered this limited but vital resource of homes in Ashford. 

We listened to you

Public consultation has been the cornerstone of the development of this Allocation Scheme. Nearly 180 individuals and organisations responded to our consultation in the summer, with 70% expressing dissatisfaction with the current policy.

The Cabinet report said: “The theme of local connection and a sense of belonging is significant in the responses, with 152 (85%) of individuals supporting giving greater priority to applicants with a local connection.

And 95% of respondents said people with a history of anti-social behaviour should be given reduced priority – in response, qualifying criteria has been extended to provide a more robust definition of who will be excluded from the register owing to inappropriate behaviour.”

It is clear that the new scheme has been informed by and reflects the feedback received from consultation with local residents and key stakeholders. Its purpose is to provide a robust, sensible and transparent way of allocating social rented homes, while considering the changing landscape of TA provision, housing need and local priorities.

“A fair and transparent system”

Cllr Noel Ovenden, Leader of Ashford Borough Council and Cabinet Member for Housing and Homelessness, said: “I’m pleased to endorse this policy, which establishes a fair and transparent system for allocating much-needed social rented homes in Ashford. This approach enables us to respond more effectively to local pressures while maintaining a balanced allocation process for our residents. 

“The consultation undertaken was thorough, and several changes have been incorporated to ensure that local voices— particularly those from disadvantaged groups—are heard.

"Implementing this policy is not only essential for compliance with the legislative position and Regulator’s standards, but it also gives applicants clarity and confidence in how homes are offered.”

What happens next?

It is anticipated that the new Allocation Scheme will go live in April 2026. Details will be sent to registered providers for information and comment.

After it goes live, households whose applications come up for annual review will be re-assessed to establish if they meet the new qualification, housing need and local connection criteria. Re-assessment will also occur where someone reports a change of circumstances. 

Applications made before the go-live date will be dealt with under the old Housing Lettings Policy. Tenant and applicant engagement will also be undertaken to co-produce a guide to the housing register for local people.