New strategy sets out plans to improve housing for tenants in West Northants

09 October 2024

A new Tenancy Strategy aimed at ensuring fair, sustainable, and effective management of social housing across West Northamptonshire has been approved by West Northamptonshire Council’s Cabinet at their meeting yesterday (8 October).

The West Northamptonshire Tenancy Strategy (2024-2029) sets out clear guidelines for registered housing providers (RPs) operating within the area, ensuring that housing policies support long-term community stability and meet the growing demand for affordable housing.

This strategy replaces the previous policies from the former legacy areas of Daventry, South Northamptonshire, and Northampton, and aligns with key Council objectives, such as the Corporate Plan, the Housing Strategy, and the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy.

Key proposals in the strategy include the introduction of lifetime tenancies, enabling new tenants to ensure long-term housing security and encouraging stable and sustainable communities; the use of fixed-term tenancies in exceptional circumstances to limit disruption to community cohesion; and the delivery of more social rent, particularly in the development of new homes to address poverty and improve the affordability of housing. The strategy will also focus on homeless prevention and tenancy sustainment, ensuring vulnerable residents receive the necessary support needed to avoid homelessness.

The strategy also outlines how the Council will work closely with RPs to make sure they meet local housing needs. via the Housing Register and through new affordable housing delivery. It will also support the Council’s wider objectives to reduce the need for temporary accommodation and alleviate homelessness while ensuring that tenants live in safe, affordable homes.

"We are committed to ensuring that our residents have access to secure, affordable housing, and this new Tenancy Strategy is a key step in making that happen.

“By focusing on long-term tenancies and supporting our most vulnerable residents, we are not just providing homes but also building stronger, more resilient communities. This strategy will help ensure that social housing in West Northants is used in a way that benefits both tenants and the wider community, making West Northamptonshire a better place to live for everyone."Cllr Rosie Herring, Cabinet Member for Housing

The Tenancy Strategy was developed following a six-week consultation period, during which the Council engaged with private registered providers, housing tenants, private landlords, and voluntary housing organisations. 79% of respondents agreed with the key proposals in the strategy, which is designed to tackle the current housing challenges while ensuring stability for the residents of West Northamptonshire.

The Council remains committed to working with registered housing providers to ensure this strategy is effectively implemented and delivers real benefits for residents. Find more information about the new Tenancy Strategy.