Local Letting Policies

In some cases a partner landlord may introduce a Local Letting Policy (LLP) to ensure good management of stock, or where a planning agreement (commonly called a section 106) is needed for new build properties. For example:-

Areas where housing is in short supply
To ensure balanced communities and prevent anti-social behaviour
To take into account rural or city centre related issues with regard to demand and affordability

In cases where a local lettings policy exists this will be noted on the advert.

Review dates: These policies are reviewed to ensure that they are still appropriate on an annual basis, every April (unless otherwise stated).

Full DKO Partners' LLPs

believe housing

Karbon Homes

Livin

North Star Housing

Other Registered Providers' LLPs

Bernicia

Castles and Coasts

Durham Aged Miners' Homes

Gentoo

Hellens Residential

Home Group

Riverside Group

Thirteen Group

Full DKO Partners' LLPs

believe housing

Local Letting Policy 1

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Suitable two or three-bedroom flats or houses across stock held by believe housing.

CRITERIA

Properties would be let via Durham Key Options and would adhere to the Durham Key Options Policy.
Properties will be let to either two friends or family members or to individuals who may not have met, but would like to share with someone.
The properties will not be let to joint applicants, who are welcome to bid on other properties advertised through DKO.
Applicants will be asked to engage with believe housing’s Tenancy Sustainment Team to assess, as much as possible, whether applicants who propose to share are compatible.
believe housing reserves the right to refuse access to a Shared Tenancy, if they believe the tenancy is not suitable or sustainable for the applicant.
No pets will be allowed as part of the Shared Tenancy Agreement.

believe housing will gather information through a range of sources to assess applicant’s suitability for a shared tenancy. This could include references, police checks, face-to-face interviews, engagement with support agencies and references from them (and any other sources that believe housing considers to be relevant). believe housing will also take into account the applicant’s compatibility with the other proposed tenants and will also take into account applicant’s views on who they would like to share with.

EFFECTIVE DATE

This policy will be effective from September 2018.

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Local Letting Policy 2

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

All new build properties built or purchased by believe housing (or previously, County Durham Housing Group). For first lets and all subsequent lets for the first five years.

CRITERIA

Prioritisation will be in accordance with the Durham Key Options scheme with the following additional criteria – we will:

Carry out a home visit (where appropriate) with the proposed tenant prior to a formal offer being made
Not consider any applicant with any records of ASB in the last 6 years, or any open cases of ASB being investigated at the point of offer
Carry out a Police check on all applicants prior to an offer being made
Expect that applicants will have a clear rent account, including other charges such as recharges or FTA, for 12 months leading up to the formal offer being made (the Lettings Manager, believe housing, will have final determination of any exceptional cases).

EFFECTIVE DATE

May 2019

REVIEW DATE

This will be reviewed five years from the first let in 2019.

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Karbon Homes

Local Letting Policy 1

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Lynwood House Development: 20 two bedroom apartments, for over 55s - some wheelchair adapted.

CRITERIA

To take into account rural or city centre related issues with regard to demand and affordability which would include a local connection.
The planning regulations for the redevelopment of Lynwood House included a covenant that the development would meet the needs of older persons from the local community.

For the purpose of allocations to meet the local area, the village boundaries of Lanchester, County Durham will be the initial catchment area

Thereafter, if no applicants with a local connection to Lanchester have bid, priority will be awarded to applicants currently resident in the former Derwentside District Council boundary area. If no further bids are received, the area will be widened to the County Durham boundary area.

If the Local Lettings Policy requires local connection the following criteria is in place:-

When an applicant or member of the applicant’s household (who is to be rehoused with the applicant) is:

Currently resident in the area or; has left the area within the last 6 months and has lived for a continuous period of 12 months prior to either their date of application; or the date that they left the area

And/or

Currently resident outside of the area who supports or requires support from someone who has been resident in the area for at least 2 years

And/or

In continuous full or part time work in the area for at least 12 months prior to the date of application. Part time work means a minimum of 2 full days per week.

EFFECTIVE DATE

December 2013

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Local Letting Policy 2

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Properties within the following area will be allocated via this Local Letting Policy:-

12 new x two and three bedroom properties at College View, Esh Winning

CRITERIA

Properties within the specified area will be let in line with the following criteria:-

When an applicant or member of the applicant's household (who is to be rehoused with the applicant is;

Currently resident in the area or; has left the area within the last 6 months and has lived for a continuous period of 12 months prior to either their date of application; or the date that they left the area

And/or

Currently resident outside of the area who supports or requires support from someone who has been resident in the area for at least 2 years
In continuous full or part time work in the area for at least 12 months prior to the date of application. Part time work means a minimum of 2 full days per week.

EFFECTIVE DATE

April 2013

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Livin

Local Letting Policy 1

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Livin properties will only be allocated when it is considered that the qualifying applicant is in a position to successfully conduct their tenancy.

Livin is therefore introducing a requirement for housing applicants to attend a ‘Pre-Tenancy Workshop’ in order to ensure they are able to successfully conduct a tenancy.

CRITERIA

Any housing applicant who will be granted a Starter or Probationary Tenancy will be required to attend the pre-tenancy workshop before they receive an offer of accommodation:-

Have not held a previous successful tenancy (any tenure) within the last 12 months (including regular moves which indicate sustainment issues)
Have highlighted any relevant vulnerabilities on their application form
Have a criminal conviction that may not be directly connected to a tenancy but would still raise concerns regarding the conduct of a tenancy, e.g. theft of motor vehicles
Have a history of anti-social behaviour
All applicants aged 18 -21 registered with livin or applying for a home with livin will also be assessed to attend Smart Start (this will particularly assist those who may require further support due being in receipt of housing related benefits or Universal Credit).

SUPPORT MEASURES

The workshop will include information/advice in respect of the following:

How to conduct their new tenancy and the requirements of their tenancy agreement
The likely costs of running a livin home and training on budgeting skills
Access to services which will assist the applicant in conducting a successful tenancy such as credit unions, furniture schemes etc.
Digital inclusion
Employment support
Access to grants and loans
Housing and council tax benefit
The implications of Welfare Reform, such as Universal Credit and the benefit cap

An assessment of an applicant’s capacity to conduct a tenancy will also be undertaken by the Financial Wellbeing Team and offers of accommodation will not be made to any applicant who:

1) Have no means to provide any furniture for the property

2) Do not have sufficient income to make the rent payments

3) Have themselves confirmed that they would be unable to conduct a tenancy due to needing further support, which is currently unavailable or not in place

4) Have financial commitments which mean that their expenditure exceeds their income

The Financial and Wellbeing Team and the applicant will agree a support plan to enable the applicant to prepare for a tenancy and only once the stated issue is resolved, will any formal offer of accommodation be made. Assistance will be given as follows:

1) Have no means to provide any furniture for the property

Access to the Smarterbuys Store; and access to either free or more affordable furniture; help to secure grants, if possible; or source, at least, the basics needed, such as a bed, cooker, chair etc.

2) Do not have sufficient income to make the rent payments

Help to appeal against benefit sanctions, welfare benefit checks, debt advice and help into employment.

3) Have themselves confirmed they would be unable to conduct a tenancy due to needing further support, which is currently unavailable or not in place

Identification of and referral to appropriate support providers

4) Have financial commitments which mean that their expenditure exceeds their income

livin will carry out a financial health check, where there are immediate areas for savings. livin would be able to access grants, carry out a welfare benefits check and/or refer for debt advice.

EFFECTIVE DATE

July 2014

AMENDED

October 2015
October 2017 (criteria amended to include 18-21 year olds)

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Local Letting Policy 2

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

The ‘Courts’ Shildon Regeneration Area

CRITERIA

Properties within the specified areas will be let in line with the following criteria:-

Livin tenants that are assessed as adequately housed will not be considered until they have held their current tenancy over two years, to demonstrate there is a commitment from our tenants to build a sustainable community in their new home
All new tenants must have completed a tenancy support assessment and affordability check with Livin before the commencement of any tenancy
All applicants (or member of the household to be rehoused) must not have been found guilty of committing anti-social behaviour by a previous Landlord or the police within the last two years. Decisions will be based on Landlord references and Police checks.
It is an expectation that tenants will sign a Good Neighbour Agreement

2. Preference will be given to those engaging in positive activity - 60% of homes being offered will be to applicants in part or full time work at the point of first let.

EFFECTIVE DATE

June 2019

REVIEW DATE

June 2020

Local Lettings Policy 3

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Units classified as low demand (see definition below) within Livin Housing Limited's stock within Shildon and Newton Aycliffe (Western Area and Agnew)

CRITERIA

Low demand will be defined as follows:

Any property in the specified areas which has been advertised via the Durham Key Options Choice Based Lettings system for two consecutive cycles without being successfully allocated.
Where a property has been classed as 'low demand' for the purposes of this local lettings policy, should a similar property in terms of size and unit type become available in the same location, this will also be recognised as being low demand without the need for being advertised via Durham Key Options.

Where a property meets the definition of low demand as above, Livin will carry out a direct let to avoid keeping the property empty and to best make use of social housing stock. The following criteria will be in place:

Prospective tenants must be recieving support from Durham Homestay housing support service.

EFFECTIVE DATE

August 2020

REVIEW DATE

September 2021

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North Star (formerly Teesdale Housing)

Local Letting Policy 1

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Barnard Castle
Middleton in Teesdale
Stainton Grove & Village
Staindrop
Cotherstone
Romaldkirk
Eggleston
Mickleton
Bowes
Ingleton
Startforth
Gainford

CRITERIA

When an applicant or member of the applicants' household (who is to be re-housed with the applicant) has;

Lived in Teesdale continuously for at least the 2 years prior to the date of application
Been in continuous full or part time work in Teesdale for at least the last 2 years prior to the date of application. Part time work means a minimum of 16 hours per week.
Been assessed under the DKO Letting Policy as having a hardship/welfare need which would be alleviated by re-housing within the Teesdale area
Lived continuously in Teesdale for at least the last 2 years prior to being accepted as homeless but has been placed in temporary accommodation outside of Teesdale

Applicants will be shortlisted with preference given to local connection and thereafter date of application. Where there are no bids received from applicants who fulfil the local connection criteria within Band 1, applicants (with local connection) within the next eligible band will be considered and so on. Where no applicants with a local connection have bid for a property the shortlisting process will apply in line with the DKO Letting Policy.

EFFECTIVE DATE

This policy will be effective from April 2009 and will be in place as long as North Star are a partner of Durham Key Options.

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Local Letting Policy 2

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Feather Stone Rise, Cotherstone

CRITERIA

Priority will be given to a person who:

has immediately prior to allocation been a resident of the Parish of Cotherstone in the former District of Teesdale for at least two years and whose accommodation is unsuitable for his or her circumstances lacking separate accommodation or living in a socially unacceptable standard of accommodation.

Households including persons employed or with a firm offer of full time employment within the Parish
Elderly or disabled people who were born or who have a member of family living within the District.
Dependents or persons living within a related Parish or a parish within the former Teesdale District.

If a dwelling remains unlet for a period of three weeks from it becoming available then the let shall be offered to a person residing in the Parishes of Mickleton, Romaldkirk, Lartington, Hunderthwaite and Egglestone.

If the dwelling remains unlet for a further period of three weeks then it may be let to a person residing in any Parish within the former Teesdale District providing they meet the following criteria:-

The applicant or member of their family already reside in the former Teesdale District.
Households including persons employed or with a firm offer of full time employment within the Parish
Elderly or disabled people who were born or who have a member of family living within the District.
Dependents or persons living within a related Parish or a parish within the District of Teesdale.

If no person/s satisfying the requirements of the above sub-clauses is found in accordance with the provisions and subject to the timescales as set out above bid for the property, the relevant Affordable Housing Unit may be disposed to any person in need of affordable housing.

EFFECTIVE DATE

This policy will be effective from April 2009 and will be in place as long as North Star are a partner of Durham Key Options.

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Local Letting Policy 3

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

2 bedroom bungalows: Watson Court, Barnard Castle

CRITERIA

Properties will only be let to those applicants who are over the age of 60 years- medically assessed applicants will not be accepted for these properties, even if they require the adaptation.

EFFECTIVE DATE

This policy is effective from scheme start (2009) and will be in place as long as North Star are a partner of Durham Key Options.

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Local Letting Policy 4

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Castle Vale, Barnard Castle (all bungalows and houses)

CRITERIA

Applicants with a local connection (as per below) to the parishes of Marwood and Barnard Castle, or their adjoining parishes, will first be prioritised above those without, regardless of banding priority
After these applicants are prioritised, applicants with a local connection to the former district of Teesdale will then be prioritised above those with no such connection
All other applicants will then be considered from County Durham.

The following criteria is in place- in line with the section 106 agreement: -

When an applicant or member of the applicant’s household (who is to be rehoused with the applicant) is:

Currently resident in the area for a minimum of 3 years

And/ or

Has had a period of 3 years permanent residence within the last 5 years

And/or

Has an essential need to live close to another person who has permanent residence in the area. This essential need applies to applicants who currently reside outside of the area who support or require support from someone who is resident in that area.

And/or

Currently employed within the area. This is defined in line with DKO policy as in continuous full or part time work in the area for at least 12 months prior to the date of application. Part time work means a minimum of 2 full days per week.

EFFECTIVE DATE

October 2015 (bungalows) and July 2016 (houses)

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Local Letting Policy 5

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

2 bedroom bungalows: Hollinside, Castle Vale, Barnard Castle

CRITERIA

Properties will only be let to those applicants who are over the age of 60 years- medically assessed applicants will not be accepted for these properties, even if they require the adaptation.

EFFECTIVE DATE

This policy is effective from 01 October 2015 and will be in place as long as North Star are a partner of Durham Key Options.

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Local Letting Policy 6

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Kinghorne Road, Green Lane, Barnard Castle

CRITERIA

Applicants with a local connection (as per below) to the parish of Barnard Castle, or an adjoining parishes, will first be prioritised above those without, regardless of banding priority
After these applicants are prioritised, applicants with a local connection to the former district of Teesdale will then be prioritised above those with no such connection
All other applicants will then be considered from County Durham.

The following criteria is in place- in line with the section 106 agreement: -

When an applicant or member of the applicant’s household (who is to be rehoused with the applicant) is:

Currently resident in the area for a minimum of 3 years

And/ or

Has had a period of 3 years permanent residence within the last 5 years

And/or

Has an essential need to live close to another person who has permanent residence in the area. This essential need applies to applicants who currently reside outside of the area who support or require support from someone who is resident in that area.

And/or

Currently employed within the area. This is defined in line with DKO policy as in continuous full or part time work in the area for at least 12 months prior to the date of application. Part time work means a minimum of 2 full days per week.

EFFECTIVE DATE

March 2018

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Local Letting Policy 7

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Four x 3 bed new build properties at The Green and The Orlands, Newton Aycliffe

CRITERIA

Priority for allocations will be given to applicants with a local connection to the area (see definition further below);

BUT

60% of the homes (i.e. at least two the four available) will be allocated to applicants engaged in positive activity. This includes Key Workers (Key Worker being defined as employed as part of the Emergency Services, Hospitals, Armed Forces, Schools/Colleges or local industry/manufacturing), those in employment*, education, training, volunteering or community work in order to improve the sustainability of the area.

Local connection

Applicants with a local connection (as per below requirements) to Newton Aycliffe will first be prioritised above those without, regardless of banding priority
After these applicants are prioritised, applicants with a local connection to the former district of Sedgefield will then be prioritised above those with no such connection
All other applicants will then be considered from County Durham.

The following criteria is in place:

When an applicant or member of the applicant’s household (who is to be rehoused with the applicant) is:

Currently resident in the area for a minimum of 3 years

And/ or

Has had a period of 3 years permanent residence within the last 5 years

And/or

Has an essential need to live close to another person who has permanent residence in the area. This essential need applies to applicants who currently reside outside of the area who support or require support from someone who is resident in that area.

And/or

Currently employed* within the area.

*This is defined in line with DKO policy as in continuous full or part time work in the area for at least 12 months prior to the date of application. Part time work means a minimum of 2 full days per week.

ADDITIONAL CRITERIA

North Star will also:

Carry out a police check on all applicants prior to on offer being made
Not consider, any applicant with any records of ASB in the last 5 years
Request one additional character reference as well as landlord reference

EFFECTIVE DATE

April 2018

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Local Letting Policy 8

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Four x 2 bed new build properties at St Edmunds Manor, Sedgefield
Two x 2 bed new build bungalows at St Edmunds Manor, Sedgefield

CRITERIA

Priority for allocations of houses and bungalows will be given to applicants with a local connection to the area (see definition further below);

BUT (for the 2 bed houses only)

60% of the homes (i.e. at least two the four available) will be allocated to applicants engaged in positive activity. This includes Key Workers (Key Worker being defined as employed as part of the Emergency Services, Hospitals, Armed Forces, Schools/Colleges or local industry/manufacturing), those in employment*, education, training, volunteering or community work in order to improve the sustainability of the area.

Local connection

All properties will be advertised for two weeks and it is at the end of this two weeks that final shortlists will be priortised by local connection:

Applicants with a local connection (as per below requirements) to the electoral ward (or adjoining ward) of Sedgefield will first be prioritised above those without, regardless of banding priority
After these applicants are prioritised, applicants with a local connection to the former district of Sedgefield will then be prioritised above those with no such connection
All other applicants will then be considered from County Durham.

The following criteria is in place:

When an applicant or member of the applicant’s household (who is to be rehoused with the applicant) is:

Currently resident in the area for a minimum of 3 years

And/ or

Has had a period of 3 years permanent residence within the last 5 years

And/or

Has an essential need to live close to another person who has permanent residence in the area. This essential need applies to applicants who currently reside outside of the area who support or require support from someone who is resident in that area.

And/or

Currently employed* within the area.

ADDITIONAL CRITERIA

North Star will also:

Carry out a police check on all applicants prior to on offer being made
Not consider, any applicant with any records of ASB in the last 5 years
Not consider any applicant who does not pass a full affordability check for the property (this is required due to the higher than usual rent for these properties)

EFFECTIVE DATE

October 2018

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Other Registered Providers' LLPs

Bernicia

Local Letting Policy 1

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Jubilee Terrace, Mickleton

CRITERIA

Applicants with a local connection (as below) to Mickleton will first be prioritised above those without, regardless of banding priority.
After these applicants are prioritised, applicants with a local connection to the former district of Teesdale will then be prioritised above those with no such connection.
All other applicants will then be considered.

When an applicant or member of the applicant’s household (who is to be rehoused with the applicant is:

Currently resident in the area or; has left the area within the last 6 months and has lived for a continuous period of 12 months prior to either their date of application; or the date that they left the area.

And/or

Currently resident outside of the area who supports or requires support from someone who has been resident in the area for at least 2 years.
In continuous full or part time work in the area for at least 12 months prior to the date of application. Part time work means a minimum of 2 full days per week.

EFFECTIVE DATE

Scheme start - 2009

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Local Letting Policy 2

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Birkett Close, Cotherstone (8 x 2 bed bungalows, 2 x 2 bed houses, 2 x 3 bed houses)

CRITERIA

Applicants with a local connection (as below) to Cotherstone Parish will first be prioritised above those without, regardless of banding priority
After these applicants are prioritised, applicants with a connection to the adjoining parishes will be considered
After these applicants are prioritised, applicants with a local connection to the former district of Teesdale will then be prioritised above those with no such connection.
All other applicants will then be considered from County Durham

The following criteria is in place- in line with the section 106 agreement: -

When an applicant or member of the applicant’s household (who is to be rehoused with the applicant) is:

Currently resident in the area for a minimum of 3 years

And/ or

Has had a period of 3 years permanent residence within the last 5 years

And/or

Has an essential need to live close to another person who has permanent residence in the area. This essential need applies to applicants who currently reside outside of the area who support or require support from someone who has been resident in the area for at least 3 years

And/or

Currently employed within the area. This is defined in line with DKO policy as in continuous full or part time work in the area for at least 12 months prior to the date of application. Part time work means a minimum of 2 full days per week.

Durham County Council has 100% nomination rights on the first allocation of the development. All 12 properties will be allocated through Durham Key Options.

All applicants wishing to be shortlisted for the bungalows must need this property type. This aspect is not covered by the s106, so will be in line with DKO Policy ie only applicants 60+ years old or with a medical need requiring a bungalow, will be shortlisted for bungalows. The criteria above i) to iv) will then still apply.

EFFECTIVE DATE

October 2014

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Local Letting Policy 3

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Bedburn Road, Hamsterley

CRITERIA

Applicants with a local connection (as below) to the parish of Hamsterley or South Bedburn will first be prioritised above those without, regardless of banding priority.
After these applicants are prioritised, applicants with a local connection to the adjoining parishes of Woodland and Lynesack and Softley will be prioritised above those without.
After these applicants are prioritised, applicants with a local connection to the former district of Teesdale will then be prioritised above those with no such connection.
All other applicants will then be considered.

When an applicant or member of the applicant’s household (who is to be rehoused with the applicant) is:

Currently resident in the area and has lived in the relevant area continuously for the previous two years;

And/or

An elderly or disabled person currently resident outside of the area, who requires support from a family member who has been resident in the area for at least 2 years.
In continuous full-time (part-time not considered in this section 106 agreement) work or can provide evidence of a contract offer of permanent employment for that area.

EFFECTIVE DATE

1994

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Castles and Coasts

Local Letting Policy 1

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Former Shotley Bridge Hospital site

CRITERIA

Castles and Coasts will first offer the property to an eligible applicant within the sub-area of the parishes of Blackhill, Benfieldside, Consett North and Ebchester.
If there are no suitable applicants within the sub-district after 6 weeks, then eligible applicants within the former district of Derwentside will be shortlisted next in turn.
After a further 6 weeks, all suitable applicants (including those from outside of County Durham) will be considered.

The following definition is in place regarding eligibility for the above 'local connection' requirement- in line with the section 106 planning agreement: -

When an applicant or member of the applicant’s household (who is to be rehoused with the applicant):

Lives in the stated area or has previously lived in that area for 6 months

And/or

Has an essential need to live close to a family member living in the stated area (resident for a minimum of 6 months);

And/or

Is permanently employed within the area. This is defined in line with DKO policy as in continuous full or part time work* in the area for at least 12 months prior to the date of application. Part time work means a minimum of 2 full days per week.

EFFECTIVE DATE

2008

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Local Letting Policy 2

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Land at the rear of Greenfields, Cotherstone - now Fitzhugh Court

CRITERIA

Castles and Coasts will first offer the property to an eligible applicant within the parish of Cotherstone.
If there are no suitable applicants within the sub-district after 4 weeks, then eligible applicants within related parishes - Hunderthwaite, Ronaldkirk and Lartington.

The following definition is in place regarding eligibility for the above 'local connection' requirement- in line with the section 106 planning agreement: -

When an applicant or member of the applicant’s household (who is to be rehoused with the applicant):

Lives in the stated area for 2 years

And/or

Has an essential need to live close to a family member living in the stated area (resident for a minimum of 2 years);

And/or

Is permanently employed within the area or has a permanent offer of employment. This is defined in line with DKO policy as in continuous full or part time work* in the area. Part time work means a minimum of 2 full days per week.

EFFECTIVE DATE

1992

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Durham Aged Miners' Homes (DAMHA)

Local Letting Policy 1

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Land at the former Belle Vue swimming centre, Ashdale Road, Consett

CRITERIA

The following criteria is in place as part of a section 106 planning agreement: -

A Dwelling shall not be Occupied otherwise than by a person or a household where the Occupier or Occupiers is/are aged 50 years old or more at the point at which that person or household first Occupies the Dwelling.

EFFECTIVE DATE

November 2019

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Gentoo

Local Letting Policy 1

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Scorer's Lane, Great Lumley

CRITERIA

Applicants with a local connection (as per below) to the Parish of Great Lumley or its adjoining parishes, will first be prioritised above those without, regardless of banding priority
After these applicants are prioritised, applicants with a local connection to the former district of Chester-le-Street will then be prioritised above those with no such connection.
All other applicants will then be considered from County Durham but only if the properties are not allocated to applicants meeting the connection in points 1 or 2 above.

The following criteria is in place- in line with the section 106 agreement: -

When an applicant or member of the applicant’s household (who is to be rehoused with the applicant) is:

Currently resident in the area for a minimum of 3 years

And/or

Has an essential need to live close to another person who has permanent residence (min 3 years) in the area. This essential need applies to applicants who currently reside outside of the area who support or require support from someone who is resident in that area

And/or

Currently employed within the area. This is defined in line with DKO policy as in continuous full or part time work* in the area for at least 12 months prior to the date of application. Part time work means a minimum of 2 full days per week.

Durham County Council has 100% nomination rights on initial and subsequent allocations of the development. Therefore, all properties will be allocated through Durham Key Options.

EFFECTIVE DATE

December 2019

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Hellens Residential

Local Letting Policy 1

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

High Carr Close, Framwellgate Moor (3 x 2 bed terraced houses)

CRITERIA

Applicants with a local connection (as below) to the parish of Framwellgate Moor and its adjoining parishes will first be prioritised above those without, regardless of banding priority
After these applicants are prioritised, applicants with a local connection to the former district of Durham City will then be prioritised above those with no such connection.
Applicants will then be considered from County Durham.
All other applicants with no connection to County Durham will be considered lastly.

The following criteria is in place- in line with the section 106 agreement: -

When an applicant or member of the applicant’s household (who is to be rehoused with the applicant) is:

Currently resident in the area for a minimum of 3 years

And/ or

Has had a period of 3 years permanent residence within the last 5 years

And/or

Has an essential need to live close to another person who has permanent residence in the area. This essential need applies to applicants who currently reside outside of the area who support or require support from someone who has been resident in the area for at least 3 years

And/or

Currently employed within the area. This is defined in line with DKO policy as in continuous full or part time work in the area for at least 12 months prior to the date of application. Part time work means a minimum of 2 full days per week.

EFFECTIVE DATE

October 2016

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Home Group

Local Letting Policy 1

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

The Haven, Langley Park

CRITERIA

Applicants with a local connection (as below) to Esh and Witton Gilbert Electoral Division (which Langley Park lies within) will first be prioritised above those without, regardless of banding priority (advertising will continue for 4 weeks for local connection applicants)
After these applicants are prioritised, applicants with a connection to County Durham will be considered

The following criteria is in place- in line with the section 106 agreement: -

When an applicant or member of the applicant’s household (who is to be rehoused with the applicant) is:

Currently resident in the area for a minimum of 3 years

And/ or

Has had a period of 3 years permanent residence within the last 5 years

And/or

Has an essential need to live close to another person who has permanent residence in the area. This essential need applies to applicants who currently reside outside of the area who support or require support from someone who has been resident in the area for at least 3 years

And/or

Currently employed within the area. This is defined in line with DKO policy as in continuous full or part time work in the area for at least 12 months prior to the date of application. Part time work means a minimum of 2 full days per week.

Durham County Council has 100% nomination rights of the development. Therefore, all properties will be allocated through Durham Key Options.

EFFECTIVE DATE

November 2013

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Local Letting Policy 2

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Old Station Close, Fencehouses (11 x 2 bed houses, 7 x 3 beds)

CRITERIA

Applicants with a local connection (as below) to Lumley Electoral Division (which Fencheouses lies in) will first be prioritised above those without, regardless of banding priority (advertising will continue for 4 weeks for local connection applicants)
After these applicants are prioritised, applicants with a connection to County Durham will be considered

The following criteria is in place- in line with the section 106 agreement: -

When an applicant or member of the applicant’s household (who is to be rehoused with the applicant) is:

Currently resident in the area for a minimum of 3 years

And/ or

Has had a period of 3 years permanent residence within the last 5 years

And/or

Has an essential need to live close to another person who has permanent residence in the area. This essential need applies to applicants who currently reside outside of the area who support or require support from someone who has been resident in the area for at least 3 years

And/or

Currently employed within the area. This is defined in line with DKO policy as in continuous full or part time work in the area for at least 12 months prior to the date of application. Part time work means a minimum of 2 full days per week.

Durham County Council has 100% nomination rights on the first allocation of the development. All 18 properties will be allocated through Durham Key Options.

EFFECTIVE DATE

October 2014

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Local Letting Policy 3

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Youll Close, Thornley (6 x 2 bed bungalows, 11 x 2 bed houses, 6 x 3 bed houses)

CRITERIA

Applicants with a local connection (as below) to Thornley Parish will first be prioritised (for two weeks advertising) above those without, regardless of banding priority
After these applicants are prioritised, applicants with a connection to the adjoining parishes will be considered (up to a further two weeks advertising)
After these applicants are prioritised, applicants with a local connection to the former district of Easington will then be prioritised above those with no such connection (for a further period of 6 weeks)
All other applicants will then be considered from County Durham (after 10 weeks advertising in total)

The following criteria is in place- in line with the section 106 agreement: -

When an applicant or member of the applicant’s household (who is to be rehoused with the applicant) is:

Currently resident in the area for a minimum of 3 years

And/ or

Has had a period of 3 years permanent residence within the last 5 years

And/or

Has an essential need to live close to another person who has permanent residence in the area. This essential need applies to applicants who currently reside outside of the area who support or require support from someone who is resident in that area

And/or

Currently employed within the area. This is defined in line with DKO policy as in continuous full or part time work in the area for at least 12 months prior to the date of application. Part time work means a minimum of 2 full days per week.

Durham County Council has 100% nomination rights on the first allocation of the development. All 23 properties will be allocated through Durham Key Options. For subsequent lets, 60% must be allocated through Durham Key Options.

EFFECTIVE DATE

February 2015

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Local Letting Policy 4

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Holby Garth, Browney Lane (7 x 2 bed houses, 4 x 3 bed houses) and Longhill Court (6 x 2 bed houses, 2 x 3 bed houses)

CRITERIA

Applicants with a local connection (as per below) to Brandon and Byshottles Parish or its adjoining parishes, will first be prioritised above those without, regardless of banding priority
After these applicants are prioritised, applicants with a local connection to the former district of Durham City will then be prioritised above those with no such connection (these applicants will only be considered after 4 weeks of advertising)
All other applicants will then be considered from County Durham
If no applicants are found with a connection to County Durham, applications will be considered from those outside of County Durham

The following criteria is in place- in line with the section 106 agreement: -

When an applicant or member of the applicant’s household (who is to be rehoused with the applicant) is:

Currently resident in the area for a minimum of 3 years

And/ or

Has had a period of 3 years permanent residence within the last 5 years

And/or

Has an essential need to live close to another person who has permanent residence in the area. This essential need applies to applicants who currently reside outside of the area who support or require support from someone who is resident in that area

And/or

Currently employed within the area. This is defined in line with DKO policy as in continuous full or part time work* in the area for at least 12 months prior to the date of application. Part time work means a minimum of 2 full days per week.

Durham County Council has 100% nomination rights on this development. All 19 properties will be allocated through Durham Key Options initially and then re-lets thereafter.

EFFECTIVE DATE

December 2015 (Holby Garth) and September 2017 (Longhill Court)

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Local Letting Policy 5

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Barley Gate, Vigo Lane, Birtley

CRITERIA

Applicants with a local connection (as per below) to North Lodge Parish or its adjoining parishes, will first be prioritised above those without, regardless of banding priority
After these applicants are prioritised, applicants with a local connection to the former district of Chester-le-Street will then be prioritised above those with no such connection (these applicants will only be considered after 4 weeks of advertising to applicants who may have a connection to the areas listed above in point 1.)
All other applicants will then be considered from County Durham but only if the properties have been advertised for 6 weeks and are not allocated to applicants meeting the connection in points 1 or 2 above.

The following criteria is in place- in line with the section 106 agreement: -

When an applicant or member of the applicant’s household (who is to be rehoused with the applicant) is:

Currently resident in the area for a minimum of 3 years

And/or (as agreed between Home and Durham County Council in addition to the section 106 agreement)

Has an essential need to live close to another person who has permanent residence (min 3 years) in the area. This essential need applies to applicants who currently reside outside of the area who support or require support from someone who is resident in that area

And/or (as agreed between Home and Durham County Council in addition to the section 106 agreement)

Currently employed within the area. This is defined in line with DKO policy as in continuous full or part time work* in the area for at least 12 months prior to the date of application. Part time work means a minimum of 2 full days per week.

Durham County Council has 100% nomination rights on initial and subsequent allocations of the development. Therefore, all properties will be allocated through Durham Key Options.

EFFECTIVE DATE

October 2018

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Riverside Group

Local Letting Policy 1

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

A mix of 2, 3 and 4 beds houses and 2 bed apartments at Shotley Bridge; totalling 20 new build properties altogether.

CRITERIA

Durham County Council has 100% nomination rights on the first allocation of the development. All 20 properties will be allocated through Durham Key Options. It has been agreed that Riverside will endeavour to allocate 100% of the properties available to rent to applicants who fulfil a local connection to the area, for first allocation and any subsequent lets through Durham Key Options.

Riverside will first offer the property to an eligible occupier within the sub-area of the parishes of Blackhill, Benfieldside, Consett North and Ebchester.
If there are no suitable applicants within the sub-district then eligible applicants within the district of Derwentside will be shortlisted next in turn.
After this, all suitable applicants within County Durham will be considered.

EFFECTIVE DATE

February 2013

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Local Letting Policy 2

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

A mix of 2 and 3 bed houses and 2 bed bungalows in Stanhope; 10 x bungalows, 13 x houses totalling 23 new build properties altogether.

CRITERIA

Durham County Council has 100% nomination rights on the first allocation of the development. All 23 properties will be allocated through Durham Key Options. Handover of the first property from the developer to Riverside will be in October 2014. It has been agreed that Riverside will endeavour to allocate 100% of the properties available to rent to applicants who fulfil a local connection to the Stanhope parish, for first allocation and any subsequent lets through Durham Key Options.

Riverside will first offer the property to an eligible applicant within the Stanhope parish that meets the local connection criteria
Then to applicants from the adjoining parishes, meeting the local connection criteria
If there are no suitable applicants then eligible applicants within the district of Wear Valley (with local connection) will be shortlisted next in turn
After this, all suitable applicants within County Durham will be considered

The following criteria is in place to meet 'local connection'- in line with the section 106 planning agreement: -

When an applicant or member of the applicant’s household (who is to be rehoused with the applicant) is:

Currently resident in the area for a minimum of 3 years

And/ or

Has had a period of 3 years permanent residence within the last 5 years

And/or

Has an essential need to live close to another person who has permanent residence in the area. This essential need applies to applicants who currently reside outside of the area who support or require support from someone who has been resident in the area for at least 3 years

And/or

Currently employed within the area. This is defined in line with DKO policy as in continuous full or part time work* in the area for at least 12 months prior to the date of application. Part time work means a minimum of 2 full days per week.

All applicants wishing to be shortlisted for the bungalows must need this property type. This aspect is not covered by the section 106 planning agreement, so will be in line with DKO Policy ie only applicants 60+ years old or with a medical need requiring a bungalow, will be shortlisted for bungalows. The criteria above i) to iv) will then still apply.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 2014

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Thirteen Group

Local Letting Policy 1

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Hutton Grove, Haswell (12 x 3 bed houses, 8 x 2 bed houses)

CRITERIA

No more than 7 properties to be let to existing social housing tenants transferring within Haswell.
Of the remaining properties, 50% let to tenants in employment (defined as working 16 hours per week or more for at least 6 of the last 12 months).

EFFECTIVE DATE

May 2011

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Local Letting Policy 2

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Sorrel Close, Shotton: 4 x Two bedroom, 7 x Three bedroom

CRITERIA

50% let to tenants in employment (defined as working 16 hours per week or more for at least 6 of the last 12 months).

EFFECTIVE DATE

July 2013

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Local Letting Policy 3

PROPERTIES COVERED BY POLICY

Initial let of 15 new build houses at Paddock Close, Chilton (10 x 3 bed, 5 x 2 bed)

CRITERIA

Prioritisation as per Durham Key Options CBL scheme with additional criteria:

50% let to tenants in employment (defined as working 16 hours per week or more for at least 6 of the last 12 months).

EFFECTIVE DATE

February 2013

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