Rent hike in pipeline
Cllrs set to give nod to increase of almost 4%
Councillors are set to approve a rent increase of almost four per cent to help improve existing council housing in South Lanarkshire.
Over £62 million has been earmarked by the housing and technical resource committee for new council housing and improving existing stock.
Following the council’s commitment to build 1000 new homes, £38m will be spent building 193 new homes in 2019/20.
Existing council houses will see upgrades to building exteriors, heating systems, energy efficiency, kitchens, bathrooms and environmental works totalling more than £18.5m.
However, a rent increase of 3.95 per cent would be applied to all council houses, travelling person sites, lockups and garages if the proposals are approved. Proposals to remove three community warden posts have also been dropped.
Chair of the housing and technical resource committee, Councillor Josh Wilson, said: “This significant investment for the year ahead shows our commitment to ensuring all council tenants are living in modern, energy efficient homes, which are suitable for their needs.
“The budget also allows us to increase the number of new council homes, which provide modern living standards, with innovative and flexible styles to meet a range of needs.”
The housing revenue and capital account budget for 2019/20 was agreed at a special meeting of the housing and technical resources committee, and will now go to the Executive Committee for endorsement before being presented to the full council for approval later this month.