A PRIZE draw could be introduced to encourage council tenants to pay their rent on time.
Derwentside District Council is considering setting up a scheme to reward what it described as "loyal and responsible tenants".
Figures taken on February 1 by the authority showed that 3,257 tenants - about half - were behind with payments and owed the council more than £739,000 in arrears. The average level of arrears was £226.
Residents will only be eligible for the scheme if their account is in credit or clear at the time the random draw takes place. Prizes will range from £250 for the first name out of the hat, to £25 for fourth place.
Tenants associations across the district have been consulted on the draw.
It follows the success of a similar project run by a housing association, which offers £200 to tenants who give four weeks' notice and leave their home in a reasonable condition.
Councillors will vote next week on setting aside £1,000 for the initiative.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article