A new online discussion forum launched this week will help all those involved in the change to new unitary councils in seven areas of England to make the transition as smooth as possible.

The new discussion site has been set up by the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) at the request of Communities and Local Government. It will provide a forum for the exchange of information and ideas as local government officers prepare for the switch to the new councils in April 2009.

Stuart Blackie, Head of Housing Services at North Cornwall District Council, said: "Talking to other colleagues around the country, it is clear that there should be an opportunity to share ideas without re-inventing the wheel. There are some unique problems with bringing together existing authorities under the new unitary councils, for example how to combine different housing allocation systems. It will be very valuable to share ideas with other authorities going through the same changes to ensure the transition works for the benefit of tenants and residents."

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Mike Owen, Chief Executive of Carrick Housing and Landlord Services Design Lead for One Cornwall, said: "Creating a new unitary housing structure is a daunting prospect. Getting the service delivery structures right, engaging tenants and working through the new Housing Revenue Account determinations will all be difficult. The chance to share good practice and to develop ideas with colleagues in other parts of the country is essential and this discussion site will be a useful forum."

(CD/JM)