Issue - meetings

To consider the report of the Director Finance.

Agreed:

RECOMMENDED that Council approve:-

(1)   the increase of Council dwelling rent by 4.1% from 1 April 2022;

(2)   the increase of garage rent by 4.1% from 1 April 2022; and

(3)   the increase of service charges by 4.1% from 1 April 2022, with the exception of charges specified in paragraph 11.3 of the report.

Reason for Decision: As set out in the report.

The Executive received the report which set out the proposed changes to Council dwelling rents, garage rents and service charges with effect from 1 April 2022.

Particular reference was made to-

·        there would be a 4.1% increase in rent which would be significant, compared to the previous year which had been 1.5% This increase would offset the loss of income caused by the lower than expected increase last year;

·        Council tenants have benefited from five years of a 1% reduction in housing rent; and

·        the weekly increase would be £3.18 for a two bedroom flat with rent levels of £80 per week which was the lowest rent in the city for a property of this type.

The Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Council Housing Development and Services welcomed the report and highlighted that discussions on rent increases  had been held with the Housing team.

RECOMMENDED that Council approve:-

(1)   the increase of Council dwelling rent by 4.1% from 1 April 2022;

(2)   the increase of garage rent by 4.1% from 1 April 2022; and

(3)   the increase of service charges by 4.1% from 1 April 2022, with the exception of charges specified in paragraph 11.3 of the report.