Residents first: New housing rules will put North Lincolnshire folk back at the front of the queue

Local families, workers and carers will be put back at the front of the queue for social housing under major changes designed to protect the homes residents rely on.

Under tough new proposals going out to public consultation in the New Year, applicants will need to have lived in North Lincolnshire for at least five years before joining the housing list.

The new proposed rules are designed to ensure homes go first to people with genuine roots in the area, with priority given to workers, volunteers and carers alongside stronger protections for care leavers, veterans and survivors of domestic abuse.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “People here tell us the same thing time and again: they want a fair system that puts local families first. That’s exactly what we’re doing.

“This is about protecting things that actually matter, day in, day out. Our communities, our neighbourhoods and the people who work, care and contribute should come first but the system has been stacked against them – that changes now.

“If you’ve built your life in North Lincolnshire, you should not be pushed aside. These changes will restore fairness and common sense.”

The changes are designed to ensure that the limited number of available homes are reserved for people who have genuine roots in the area and contribute to local life and that those who contribute to the community – including workers, volunteers and unpaid carers – get the priority they deserve when homes become available.

Cllr Richard Hannigan, cabinet member for Adults, Health and Communities, said: “A secure home is the foundation for a healthy, stable life. These new rules mean we can get support to the people who need it most – especially those with the strongest local ties and those who keep this place going through their work, care or volunteering.

“Residents have been clear about what they expect, and we are responding.”

Financial thresholds will prevent applicants with high incomes or substantial savings from using the social housing system, ensuring support goes to those who truly need it.

Other changes include stronger protections for care leavers, scrapping outdated restrictions on veterans, and introducing a clearer banding system so applicants know exactly where they stand.

The public consultation will open in January.