RESIDENTS are being urged to have their say on plans to combat an increasing risk of homelessness in Basingstoke and Deane.

The borough council has drawn up the plans to tackle the problem in the face of a decline in the number of new affordable homes, reductions in Government funding and national changes to the welfare and benefit programme.

The council plans to deliver 300 affordable homes per year and to use council land to help deliver the housing.

The plans also include negotiating with developers, reviewing how the council allocates housing, and bringing empty homes back into use.

Vulnerable people will be supported through a range of initiatives including improving and extending housing related support services.

Councillor Rob Golding, Cabinet member for housing and regeneration, said: “This strategy shapes how the council will continue to address housing need and homelessness in the borough.

“It is important we have the views of those people directly impacted to ensure we are moving in the right direction and providing them with the right support within the resources available to us. The demand for affordable housing outweighs the number of homes available, particularly during tough economic times.

“This strategy looks at new initiatives to create more homes while prioritising the council’s resources to meet residents’ needs.”

People in need of housing and those who have been housed by the borough council are particularly being encouraged to give their views.

To have your say, visit basingstoke.gov.uk/go/ housingconsultation, pick up a paper copy in the reception at the council offices in London Road or call 01256 844844.

The deadline for all responses is Monday, January 7.