The draft Housing Policy has been approved and will come into effect on 11th November 2026 . It contains 7 banding criteria for housing allocation – 5 priority bands,  a general needs band and a reduced preference band .

All existing households on the Housing Register are being assessed under the new policy.

If you’re already on the Housing Register you should have received a letter explaining that your housing application has been reassessed against the new banding criteria . The letter also describes your right to request a review within 21 days if you wish to appeal the decision.

If you have any questions about the changes or require assistance in understanding the letter you can contact the Council on 0114 293 0000 or use the Council’s online Contact Us webpage.

The new banding criteria are explained on Page 115 onwards in the draft policy. 

Draft Housing Policy