Thursday, 16 December 2004 - 20:30 GMT

I really like your blog. I just scanned it today, but will definitely save it and go over it in depth when time allows.

May I ask you a question? The last two book I have read, one set in England, and the other in Ireland mention council housing, what is that?

Thanks for a wonderful blog. hazel

Friday, 17 December 2004 - 00:35 GMT

Hello Hazel and thank you so much for dropping by and leaving a message. I haven't been in this community very long so it is very encouraging to know that someone has enjoyed their visit!

To answer your question, council housing is housing built and maintained by the local district council and rented out to people who can't afford to buy their own home, mainly working class people or people on social security. A great many council estates were built after the war and they are usually semi-detached or terraced houses with three or four bedrooms and small gardens - all very similar looking. Young couples usually have to apply to go on the housing list and have to wait their turn before they get an available house. The rent is reasonable and you can apply for a larger house if your family increases. You can also arrange to exchange if you want to move to a new job in another town.

A good system which gives dignity to those not so well off who might otherwise have had to start their married lives living with relatives. Of course, there are some council estates in run down areas with more than their share of 'problem' tenants who get into trouble with the law and cause trouble for their neighbours!

Nowadays, some councils are prepared to sell to tenants who want to buy and at very fair prices, too.