Decision Maker: Executive

Outcome: For Determination

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: October 14, 2025

Purpose: To seek Executive approval in principle of the proposed North Northamptonshire Keyways Housing Allocations Scheme following a full and comprehensive review and permission to proceed with a six-week consultation with service users and stakeholders. After which, the results will be presented back to the Executive for the final Scheme to be considered and ratified. .  

Content: RESOLVED   KEY DECISION   That the Executive:   i)  Approved the proposed Keyways Housing Allocations Scheme (Appendix A) and other supporting papers; and   ii)  Approved the commencement of a six-week consultation with service users and stakeholders on the proposed changes to the Scheme.   For the purposes of Section 3 (Recommendations); a summary of the proposed changes are: 1. All applicants with no housing need will no longer qualify to join the Scheme. (Removal of relevant criteria in Band D and removal of Band E) 2. All homeowners will no longer qualify to join the Scheme. (Removal of Band E) 3. Care experienced young persons who are accommodated and ready to move to independent living where the council is the corporate parent will be awarded a Band A and all other care leavers will be awarded a Band D 4. Adults being accommodated by the councils Adult Social Care service and ready to move to independent living will be awarded a Band A. 5. Domestic abuse victims with a connection to North Northamptonshire will be awarded a Band A and all other victims will be awarded a Band D (unless a homeless duty applies) 6. An additional overcrowding criterion will be introduced in Band A to address cases of severe overcrowding (lacking two+ bedrooms) 7. Single and couple households will qualify to bid on up to one-bedroom properties only. 8. Autobid areas increased from four to five areas to reflect the geographical size of the former East Northamptonshire area. 9. Autobid enabled for all households in supported accommodation to improve move on flow and prevent bed blocking. 10. Increase weekly bids from three to five for all applicants.     Reason for Recommendations: To ensure that North Northamptonshire Council continues to deliver a lawful Scheme in accordance with Part 6 Housing Act 1996 (as amended) and remains fit for purpose taking into consideration emerging local needs.   Alternative Options Considered: Option 1 (not recommended): Do not make any changes to the Scheme (meaning a six-week consultation is not necessary). This is not recommended; the Scheme should be reviewed as best practise and to incorporate changing regulation, housing demand and pressures.