On March 26, BCP Council’s cabinet discussed a programme of works funded by the Housing Revenue Account (HRA), which is made up of tenants’ rents, to maintain, repair and improve council homes.
The proposal covers maintenance, improvement and investment in the council’s housing over the next five years, while also looking at a longer 30-year plan for the housing stock.
A key aim of the plan is to improve the energy performance of council homes that are below EPC C rating by 2030, with better insulation and upgraded heating systems. It also focuses on providing new kitchens, bathrooms and replacing older windows and doors.
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Work on the council housing stock will be carried out in phases, starting with homes and neighbourhoods where improvement is needed most. Prior to any work starting, residents will receive clear communication about what to expect and when.
During the cabinet meeting members discussed the improvement plan.
Councillor Andy Hadley said: “I would love to see the council going beyond EPC band C, this is about fuel poverty for those people with the least money in our communities, but I do appreciate all the things we are trying to juggle in terms of keeping people in homes.”
He added that the other thing he is keen to do is “to see a higher ambition in getting people off gas as a heating mode”.
Councillor Sandra Moore said: “I know a high priority for tenants is being able to keep there homes warm but their heating costs down.”
Councillor David Brown said: “I am really pleased that over the years we have made significant investment in decent homes and that we recognise the link between adequate housing and the condition of that housing and the link it has with health and wellbeing. The investment in this plan helps with that.”
Councillor Millie Earl said: “It is always a challenge to get the right people in the right accommodation, and it is very important that we do maximise the use of our stock as much as we can.”
Cabinet members voted unanimously to approve the investment and improvement plan.