A NEW "get tough" policy has been adopted for letting council accommodation in Richmondshire.

The authority’s Strategy Board has backed a new introductory tenancy scheme, which puts new tenants "on probation" for the first 12 months of their tenancy.

Under the new scheme, tenants who don’t maintain their new home properly or indulge in antisocial behaviour will run the risk of losing their house.

Spokesman for housing Councillor Bill Glover said: "The new introductory tenancies will give the council another tool when tackling antisocial behaviour.

"The vast majority of our council tenants look after their homes and respect their neighbours but we need to get tough on the minority who don’t."

The authority is also to join a new choice-based lettings scheme aimed at simplifying the way properties are let, putting housing applicants at the centre of the letting process.

It will mean people on the housing waiting list will proactively apply for vacant properties rather than wait until they receive an offer.

The scheme, which is currently being developed, will cover most of North Yorkshire with one single housing register and housing application form.