Housing improvements waiting list cleared
News Article
Rock Works - Affordable housing development
Councillors have cleared the waiting list for private-sector housing improvements for the first time in many years.
Members of Fylde Borough Council have given out more than 100 renewal grants to owner occupiers and landlords of houses, totalling £579,000, this year. This compares with only 42 in the previous year.
The grants bonanza signals a much-needed improvement to the condition of privately owned homes across the borough.
Councillor Cheryl Little, Portfolio Holder for Social Wellbeing, said: “These are grants for essential things such as window replacement, better insulation, security works and treating damp – so it is marvellous news for Fylde residents.
“It is many years since we have been able to tackle as many problems as this. We haven’t had to turn anyone down who met the criteria for help.
“Many of these repairs and improvements are essential to improve the condition of properties and make them fit for occupation. Others, such as insulation measures and boiler improvements help occupiers save on costs such as fuel, while also contributing to carbon savings.
“Outsiders see Fylde as a prosperous borough, yet we have an ageing population, some of whom can be asset rich but cash poor. Some have large houses, yet they may not be able to afford to maintain them as they would like.
“In particular, many of these grants help address issues such as inefficient heating systems and insulation which keep the property warm at a more affordable cost. These grants are a major help to people who find themselves in such circumstances.
“However, despite this good news about the waiting list, there will undoubtedly other property owners who will need similar assistance in the future.
“The fact that the population is ageing – and that people’s circumstances change - means there will be an ongoing need for grant assistance, but this is a good step in the right direction.”
This year’s grants have averaged between £3,000 and £5,000. The grants are means-tested to ensure that the assistance goes to those in most need.
Comments
This page doesn't have any comments yet. Be the first to comment by filling out the form below!
