Issue - meetings

To consider recommendations relating to indicative rent and charges for 2024-25.

Having declared a disclosable pecuniary interest, Councillors Evelyn Akoto, Natasha Ennin, Darren Merrill and Martin Seaton withdrew from the meeting while this item was being discussed.

RESOLVED:

1.  That a rent increase of 7.7% for all directly and tenant managed (TMO) housing stock within the council’s housing revenue account be agreed. This is in accordance with the government’s guideline rent formula of CPI+1% (based on the September Consumer Price Index) as set out at paragraphs 12-14 with effect from 1 April 2024.

2.  That a rent increase of 7.7% for the council’s shared ownership stock as set out at paragraphs 15-16 of the report be agreed with effect from 1 April 2024.

3.  That the increases to tenant service charges, comprising estate cleaning, grounds maintenance, communal lighting and door entry maintenance as set out in paragraphs 17-18 of the report be agreed with effect from 1 April 2024.

4.  That the increase in sheltered housing service charges as set out in paragraph 19 of the report be agreed with effect from 1 April 2024.

5.  That the increase in charges for garages and other non-residential facilities as set out in paragraphs 20-21 be agreed with effect from 1 April 2024.

6.  That officers be instructed to undertake a review of garage policy including the concessionary scheme and to bring forward proposals following consultation with residents as set out in paragraph 22 of the report.

7.  That the increase in tenant heating charges, including metered charges as set out in paragraphs 23-39 of the report be agreed with effect from 1 April 2024.