THOUSANDS of pounds are going to be invested to fight homelessness across the city through a new cross-council project.

Winchester City Council will benefit from £177,000, together with Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) to support tenants and landlords in a bid to reduce the number of people sleeping rough.

The money, which will come from the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government’s Private Rented Sector Access Fund, will also be put towards encouraging landlords to offer longer leases to those in housing need.

The fund will be administered by TVBC, although both councils will work together to take issues affected private sector tenants. A spokesperson for TVBC confirmed that part of the fund would go towards creating two new jobs to support landlords and tenants.

Commenting on the funding, Cllr Phil Bundy (above), housing and environmental health portfolio holder at TVBC, said: “Homelessness is a key priority for Test Valley Borough Council and these funds will help to serve those in housing need to prevent homelessness on our streets. We also welcome the opportunity to work closely with Winchester City Council colleagues to deliver a project that will benefit residents across both areas.

“Tackling homelessness is a clear objective for the council and this money will enable us to take another step towards achieving this goal.”

Winchester City Council leader and portfolio holder for housing Cllr Caroline Horrill (above) added: “I think it’s good news all round.”

The funding awarded will be distributed to the councils over 2019/2020.