Harrow people have less than a month to have their say on housing changes that could mean some people are moved out of council houses and others asked to move away from the area.

Harrow Borough Council has launched a consultation on changes it says are designed to increase the supply of affordable housing.

Measures include new ways of allocating social housing that it says will mean people who are most in need will be housed more quickly.

This will be achieved by giving some people housing advice instead of council housing.

The proposals also include the idea that long-term housing needs are met by asking people to consider moving out of the borough.

Harrow Council's portfolio holder for housing Councillor Bob Currie said: “A number of factors, including the introduction of the benefit cap later this year, will mean there will be an increasing number of people who need affordable housing.

“We have to find a way of meeting this challenge and it is very important that residents have their say.

“We want to know what people think about the changes we are proposing, so that we can be sure they are the right changes to make.” 

Paddy Lyne, chairman of Harrow Federation of Tenants and Residents Association, said: "These changes will make a difference to people's lives and people should not ignore the chance to take part in this consultation. 

"It is important to stand up and be counted and let the council know what you think. Many people will not have known changes like this before.

“HFTRA will try and involve as many people as it can and will be encouraging as many tenants and leaseholders as possible to have their say, as well as representing the views of those who will be affected."  

To take part in the consultation, and for more information, log onto www.harrow.gov.uk/housingchanges, call 020 8416 8623, or email housingchanges@harrow.gov.uk

It will run until February 27.