The council proposes rent increases to fund home improvements, energy efficiency upgrades, and address damp and mold issues in social housing.
Christine Warner supports the proposed rent increases. She said the council faces money problems, but they still want to fund housing repairs. The council has a 30-year plan to invest £210 million.
They want to make homes more energy efficient, which helps reduce tenant energy costs and deals with damp and mold issues. Last May, they announced £3 million for energy upgrades. Hundreds of homes will benefit and save residents money on bills.
The government gave £1.5 million for home upgrades; this helps 683 homes meet EPC Band C standards. The Sutton Way estate project finishes in Spring 2025. Stanney’s neighborhood improvements are almost done. This includes work on garages and boundaries.
The council understands rent increases are tough, and they urge people struggling to seek support. ForHousing and the council offer help. Rent increases are required in social housing.
This ensures homes and areas get better. They want to improve things for disadvantaged tenants, reducing fuel costs and supporting residents. The council wants safe, affordable homes. Better living areas improve well-being.
Council home rents might increase by 2.7% in April 2025. This follows government rules. Average weekly social housing rent goes to £101.63; it is currently £98.95. Affordable housing rent rises to £130.91 per week; it is currently £127.47.
Garage rents will also likely increase by 2.7%. Lifeline alarm services increase as well: Garage rent will change from £7.17 to £7.36 weekly; Lifeline alarms for tenants increases from £2.94 to £3.01; Private resident costs go from £3.68 to £3.91.
Leaseholder management fees rise by 6.53%. This reflects inflation costs. Shared ownership lease rents rise by 2.2%. The council owns 5,300 homes, mostly in Ellesmere Port, Neston, and Winsford. ForHousing will manage these homes until June 2027.
