Purpose

The Trafford Housing Allocations Policy has been updated due to changes in government legislation and the limited availability of social and affordable housing in the borough. The draft policy has been subject to public consultation. The report summarises the consultation feedback and outlines the final changes made to the policy.

Decision

(1)       That the Trafford Housing Allocations Policy 2025 be approved for implementation and publication to comply with legal framework outlined in Part 6 of the 1996 Housing Act.

(2)       That the local connection exemptions for care experienced young people, domestic abuse and armed forces veterans be incorporated and implemented under the existing Trafford Housing Allocations Policy.

Reasons for the decision

To approve the Trafford Housing Allocations Policy 2025, for the purposes of publication to ensure the Council is compliant with Parts 6 and 7 of the Housing Act 1996 and has an up-to-date Policy in place to ensure a fair and transparent process for the allocation of social and affordable housing for the residents of Trafford.

Alternative options considered

Without adopting the recommended legislative and guidance changes, Trafford could be in breach of its public sector equality duty and subject to challenges under housing legislation and would not be compliant with Parts 6 and 7 of the Housing Act 1996.  Trafford therefore must make the legislative changes to ensure that the policy remains compliant with current law and guidance issued by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.