Independent research company Craigforth has been commissioned to carry out a large-scale survey of applicants.

Councillor Andy Forrest, cabinet spokesperson for housing and property maintenance, said: “I would encourage as many people as possible to take part in the survey. Survey findings will help the council and partners to ensure we are making best use of our existing stock as well as helping us to plan future housing and housing services.

“It will shape council policy across the housing and planning services. This is extremely important as it will make sure we are delivering the right type and size of houses in the right locations to meet our residents’ needs.”

General applicants on the council housing list and transfer applicants will have received a letter inviting them to take part in the survey.

The letter provides information on how to complete the survey online as well as how to request a paper copy or telephone survey. Taking part in the survey is completely confidential and will have no impact on a housing application.

The survey deadline has been extended and will now close on Monday 5 January. After the survey closes, Craigforth will take all results and create a report on the housing needs of those on East Lothian Council’s housing list, which is expected to be published in March 2026.