Council suggests nearly 5% rent hike in the coming year

Rents for council properties in Rotherham could see an increase approaching 5% next year as the borough focuses on enhancing its housing stock and continuing new construction projects. Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council is set to discuss a proposal later this month that would raise weekly social housing rents by 4.8% starting in April 2026.

The council's housing strategy outlines that around 1.3 million in investment will be required to fully modernize homes over the next three decades. Planned improvements include new roofing, boilers, kitchens, and bathrooms, along with efforts to address dampness and mould.

Rents might climb further by approximately 2 per week if the government permits councils to adjust rents closer to the national "formula rent" benchmark. This formula calculates social housing rents in England based on property value, local wages, and property size. If the full proposal is approved, the average weekly rent would rise by roughly 6, reaching just over 101. A government decision on rent alignment is expected in January.

The council emphasized that higher rents would fund new housing developments, with 1,000 homes planned for completion by summer 2027 and an additional 500 homes targeted by 2037. Around 75% of tenants receive housing support through benefits or Universal Credit, meaning the majority may not experience the increase directly as their support would adjust accordingly.

Rotherham Council also confirmed it would continue offering assistance to residents under financial strain, while district heating costs would remain frozen, keeping average bills below the national gas price cap.

Author: Zoe Harrison