Cornwall Council is set to implement a 4.8% rent increase for its council homes, a move designed to fund significant upgrades to the local authority’s housing stock. This proposal comes as the region grapples with a burgeoning housing development landscape, raising concerns among residents about infrastructure and local amenities.
Key Takeaways
- A 4.8% rent increase is proposed for Cornwall Council homes.
- The increase aims to fund essential repairs, maintenance, and new builds.
- Approximately 1,500 council properties currently fall below the Decent Homes Standard.
- Significant investment is planned over the next 30 years to improve housing quality.
- The proposal follows recent approvals for large housing developments in areas like Bodmin.
Funding Housing Improvements
The proposed rent increase, which would amount to an extra £5 per week for a typical three-bedroom household, is a key component of the 2026/27 Housing Revenue Account (HRA) business plan. This plan aims to address the current state of the council’s housing, with around 1,500 properties falling short of the Decent Homes Standard. This standard ensures housing is safe, secure, and comfortable.
Louise Wood, service director for planning and housing, described the initiative as a "long journey" but one that will significantly improve the council’s housing stock. The council plans to invest £74 million in repairs, maintenance, and damp and mould improvements over the next five years. Furthermore, a substantial £140 million is earmarked for building and acquiring new council homes by 2036/37.
Long-Term Investment Strategy
Looking further ahead, the council anticipates a capital investment exceeding £850 million over the next three decades, with £254 million allocated for the next eight years, all aimed at achieving decent living standards across its housing portfolio. The work required to bring the existing housing stock up to standard is estimated to necessitate an additional £24 million.
Tenant Engagement and Decision Making
Before a final decision is made, the HRA business plan will be presented to the council’s cabinet for consideration. This will be followed by a period of engagement with tenants to discuss the proposals. A definitive decision on the rent rise and associated plans is expected in March.
Broader Housing Context in Cornwall
The rent increase proposal occurs against a backdrop of significant housing development across Cornwall. In Bodmin, for instance, Persimmon Homes Cornwall has received approval for a development of 527 homes, including 132 affordable units. Another proposal for the Callywith Urban Village includes plans for 680 homes, with over 200 designated as affordable.
These developments have sparked debate among residents, with concerns raised about the strain on local services such as healthcare, education, and transport infrastructure. Many residents express worries about the pace of development and its impact on the environment and local character, with some questioning whether new housing adequately addresses the needs of local people.
Sources
- Cornwall Council rents to rise 4.8% to fund housing upgrades, BBC.
- Bodmin braced for housing boom as locals say ‘there’s no more room’, Cornwall Live.
- Cornwall Council rents to rise 4.8% to fund housing upgrades, BBC.
- Rents are due to increase at council homes in Cornwall, Falmouth Packet.
Cornwall Council Proposes Rent Hike to Fund Crucial Housing Upgrades Amidst Development Boom