New homelessness laws could lead to a series of expensive and time-consuming court cases for Maldon District Council.
After April 1, families stuck in bed and breakfasts will be able to sue their local authority if permanent accommodation is not found for them within six weeks.
The ruling is intended to give force to Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott's drive to cut the number of young children without a proper home.
In the Maldon area, there is an ongoing problem with a shortage of affordable housing.
Figures for 2003 show between April and August more than £50,000 went on putting people up in B&Bs.
Published Monday January 26, 2004
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