Kirk Harrison, the Reform UK councillor responsible for housing on the Reform UK-controlled unitary council, has revealed an extreme new plan. This plan would allow for more than 3,000 removal by far the individual from the council’s Social Housing waiting list. The changes they’ve proposed address a dramatic increase in applicants. As we celebrate three years of supporting these transformative projects, applications have soared by 129%!
At present 3,107 individuals are waiting on a two-band register for social housing. Harrison emphasized the need for the scheme, stating he has observed how “the pressures of the system can distort expectations.” Our hope is that we’re turning the spotlight back on to those who truly need a home. Perhaps more importantly, it would push us to redefine the council’s ultimate goal regarding social housing.
The council’s executive has voted to advance the scheme. This six-week consultation will run from October 20 – December 1. Throughout this process, local residents will be given the chance to share their input with the City about why these changes are needed. Harrison hopes that the deliberation and consultation process will be able to accommodate very different views on the matter.
That figure, just 1,528 social homes let in 2024-25, shows the shocking picture of continued housing need in the region. Despite these accelerated lettings, applicant demand has exploded. It ranged from 2,937 in April 2022 to 6,727 in April 2025. This tremendous growth is a sign that there’s an urgent demand for successful housing solutions.
Dorothy Maxwell, a current resident and former Conservative councillor said, “I don’t know how on earth they are planning to restrict the housing list. She contended that limiting the pool of applicants would deny thousands of people “hope” in being able to find a place to call home. Her testimony underscores the personal and emotional toll these kinds of decisions can take on those who are most at risk.
The next consultation is going to be key in deciding just how the council proceeds with its risky housing strategy. This opportunity will provide citizens such as Maxwell and Harrison to express their frustrations and provide constructive ideas. They can and should lead conversations about the housing crisis.
