Who should be first in the queue for a council home?

Residents are being invited to contribute to an important consultation that could change how council housing is allocated across the Mansfield and Ashfield districts.

Mansfield and Ashfield District Councils are reviewing their Homefinder Lettings Policy for the first time since 2018.

With growing demand for social housing and fewer properties becoming available, the review aims to ensure that homes are allocated fairly and efficiently to those who need them most.

The six-week consultation was launched this week (16 June) and seeks views on a range of proposals including:

• Who should be eligible to join the councils’ Housing Register
• How priority is awarded for those accepted on to the list
• How adapted properties are allocated
• Changes to bedroom eligibility and succession rights to tenancies.

The consultation runs until midnight on Sunday 27 July and is open to all residents in the Mansfield and Ashfield districts, including those who are already on the Housing Register, current council tenants, and anyone interested in local housing issues.

Residents can complete the survey online or request a translated version by contacting homefinder@mansfield.gov.uk

Once the consultation is complete, the council will use the consultation feedback to review the current policy and implement changes. The new policy is expected to be in place by September 2025 after official governance sign-off.

There are currently more than 4,000 households waiting for a council home in Ashfield.