IPSWICH'S housing register has seen its numbers fall below 3,000 - a 14per cent drop since May last year.

IPSWICH'S housing register has seen its numbers fall below 3,000 - a 14per cent drop since May last year.

Ipswich Borough Council today hailed the news and said it was a result of a new stance tackling the causes of homelessness such as financial problems and family breakdown.

It said staff now work with clients at the earliest possible stage to offer advice and avoid them becoming homeless.

Increasing numbers of affordable homes are also said to be having an effect.

There are now 2,994 on the register.

Councillor Steven Wells, responsible for housing, said: “Reducing the numbers waiting for accommodation is one of our top priorities and we are making a big difference.

“We are also proud to have a front-line team who really are dedicated to helping people.

“But even though this is fantastic news for Ipswich, there are still an awful lot of people on the register and the work does not stop here.”