Horden Independent Advisor Service
Monday 28th of July 2025
Our role is simple:
- Explain what’s happening and why.
- Make sure you understand your rights and housing options.
- Support you in conversations with the Council.
- Help you make informed choices about your future.
Who We Are
Tpas is a national, not-for-profit organisation that specialises in resident engagement and regeneration advice. We are completely independent of the Council, we work for you, not them.
What We Offer
- Clear advice on compensation and rehousing.
- Help with questions about compulsory purchase.
- Guidance on social housing options.
- One-to-one support, in person or over the phone.
- We can even contact the Council on your behalf.
Drop-In Sessions
Come and speak to us in person at:
Horden Hub House, 54 Seventh Street, Horden, SR8 4LX
Every two weeks at 12 noon
Dates:
- 30 July
- 13 August
- 27 August
- 10 September
- 24 September
Other Ways to Get in Touch
- Freephone: 0800 731 1619
- Email: hordenindependentadvisor@tpas.org.uk
- Home Visit: We can come to you—just ask.
- Leave a message: [Contact Form]
What’s Happening in Horden?
Durham County Council plans to demolish homes on Third and Fifth Streets and build new housing as part of the Horden regeneration masterplan.
This follows community consultations in 2019 and 2022, which showed strong support for new homes and improvements.
Why?
The numbered streets have faced issues with:
- Poor housing conditions
- Empty homes
- Absentee landlords
- Anti-social behaviour
Regeneration aims to create safer streets and better homes for the future.
[Learn More About the Masterplan]
Your Housing Options
If you live on Third or Fifth Street, you have choices. Here’s a quick guide:
Private Tenants:
- Priority access to social housing in County Durham.
- £8,100 compensation + moving costs covered.
- Help with the moving process.
Owner Occupiers:
- Market value for your property + 10% (or £8,100 minimum).
- Option to buy elsewhere or move into social housing.
- Council pays moving and legal costs.
- You can get an independent valuation (paid for if agreed).
Private Landlords / Non-Resident Owners:
- Market value for property + 7.5% compensation.
- Compensation for selling costs and possibly lost rent.
Important: You do not have to sell now. A compulsory purchase order would only be used as a last resort and takes time.
[See Full Details of Your Options] LINK to DCC Horden Regen Info Packs. Non resident owners/ owner occupiers/ tenants
Have Your Say
A Resident Steering Group is being set up so local people can:
- Shape decisions.
- Review plans.
- Make sure your voice counts.
Anyone can join—no special skills needed.
Express Your Interest
FAQs
Do I have to move now?
No. Moving is voluntary at this stage. A compulsory purchase order may be used later if needed.
What is a compulsory purchase order (CPO)?
A legal process that allows the Council to buy your home for its market value plus compensation if voluntary agreement isn’t reached.
What happens if I’m renting privately?
You’ll get priority for social housing and £8,100 compensation.
What if I own my home?
You’ll get the market value, plus 10% extra, plus moving costs and legal fees.
Can I get independent advice?
Yes, that’s exactly what TPAS is here for.
More FAQs
About the Regeneration Project
Why is the Council demolishing homes in Horden?
The Council’s masterplan aims to replace poor-quality housing and empty properties with modern homes, improving the area and reducing anti-social behaviour.
Which streets are affected?
Currently, the regeneration plans focus on Third and Fifth Streets as part of Phase One.
When will demolition start?
The timeline depends on property acquisition and planning approval. Demolition work is expected after these processes are completed.
Housing Options and Moving
Can I choose where I move to?
Yes. If you move into social housing, you’ll have priority on Durham Key Options, giving you more choice of location and property type.
Do I have to move out of Horden?
No. You can apply for homes across County Durham, including in or near Horden if suitable homes are available.
Can I stay in the private rented sector?
Yes. If you prefer to rent privately, you can do so. The Council will still cover moving costs and provide compensation.
Can I get help with moving costs?
Yes. The Council will reimburse reasonable moving expenses, and help is available if you can’t pay costs upfront.
Compensation and Payments
When will I receive my compensation?
Compensation is normally paid once you move, and the Council completes the property purchase.
Do I pay tax on my compensation?
No, Home Loss payments and disturbance payments are not usually taxable.
Can landlords claim for improvements made to their property?
In some cases, yes. Claims for improvements or lost rental income must be discussed with the regeneration team.
Legal and Process Questions
What is a RICS valuation?
A RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) valuation is an independent assessment of your home’s market value, following government-approved methods.
Can I appoint my own valuer?
Yes. If you’re an owner occupier, the Council will pay for your independent RICS valuation if it is agreed in advance.
What if I disagree with the Council’s valuation?
You can appoint your own RICS-qualified valuer to check the offer.
How long will the compulsory purchase process take?
It can take between 6 months and 2 years. The Council prefers voluntary agreements first.
Resident Involvement
What is the Resident Steering Group?
A group of local people helping shape decisions about the regeneration, review plans, and ensure community voices are heard.
Do I need special skills to join?
No. Anyone can join, and support will be provided.
General
Is Tpas part of the Council?
No. Tpas is completely independent and works on behalf of residents.
Is the advice free?
Yes. All advice and support from Tpas is completely free.
Stay Updated
This page will be updated regularly with:
- Latest news on the project.
- Event dates.
- Guides and FAQs.
Bookmark this page and check back often.
Contact Us Today
0800 731 1619
hordenindependentadvisor@tpas.org.uk