A2 join forces with local councils for provision of choice

A2 has partnered up with three local councils to submit a bid for Government funding to set up a new scheme to offer people more choice over where they live. Joining forces with Runnymede, Elmbridge and Spelthorne Borough Councils, A2 hopes to receive up to £100,000 to set up a north surrey choice based lettings scheme.

The idea behind the scheme is to enable residents in the three boroughs to consider moving across borough boundaries. Available properties would be advertised by local councils, RSLs and private landlords through central newsletters and websites. Applicants would then be allowed to apply for whichever property they were interested in.

This new initiative is just one outcome of A2's Best Value Review of allocations which has been running for over 18 months. Another recommendation highlighted by the review is the introduction of a new banding system to allocate properties. This system is intended to replace what is often regarded as the outdated points system. A new banding system means that applicants would be put into a band based on their individual circumstances. Applicants on this list are reviewed by date order which prevents residents being pushed to the bottom of the list, as is often the case with the current points system. 

The outcome of the bid is expected by the end of the year and, if successful, will be implemented in April 2008 with a view to rolling it out to cover all of A2's areas of operation.

-Ends-

Editors Notes

About A2 Housing Group:
A2 Housing Group is one of the region's largest providers of affordable housing with a portfolio that includes a wide mix of housing solutions. With over 14,000 homes throughout the South East, A2 works in partnership with local authorities and, as a housing association, is regulated by the Housing Corporation.

For further information on A2 Housing Group- www.a2hg.co.uk
A2 Housing Group, Spelthorne House, Thames Street, Staines TW18 4TA

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