Published on:
11
February 2010
Over £7.5 million will be invested in the county's Council housing during the forthcoming financial year.
And for the first time in decades the housing capital programme incorporates investment of £1.5 million in building new Council houses. The 24 new houses are expected to be built in 2011/12. This funding includes a contribution of £600,000 from the Scottish Government.
The significant expenditure was agreed at today's special Council meeting, when councillors also agreed a rent rise of 5% for 20010/11.
The rise means that the average rent in Clackmannanshire is now £56.55, an increase of £2.69. Clackmannanshire's rents are still below the Scottish average.
Councillor Sam Ovens, Regeneration Portfolio Holder, said: "This is a significant decision for Clackmannanshire Council. This investment will see the Council return to building houses and I am very proud of that. Tackling the chronic shortage of social rented housing is a key priority.
"This rent rise will also allow us to continue to bring real benefits to our existing tenants. We will invest £24 million over the next five years, ensuring that we will reach our commitment of delivering the Scottish Housing Quality Standard, and the enhanced Clackmannanshire Standard, by 2015."
We expect to have replaced all the kitchens in our Council houses by March 2011, with new bathrooms to follow.