Increase in rent aimed at improving housing standards

Cornwall Council is planning a 4.8% rent increase for its council homes as part of a strategy to enhance the quality of its housing stock. The council's corporate finance scrutiny committee approved the 2026/27 Housing Revenue Account (HRA) business plan, which will now go to the cabinet for further consideration.

If the proposal is approved, the average three-bedroom household would face an additional 5 per week in rent, totaling approximately 260 extra annually.

Louise Wood, service director for planning and housing, stated that while it will be a gradual process to reach the desired standards, this move positions the council for significant improvement in its housing provision.

Addressing Housing Standards

Currently, around 1,500 council properties do not meet the Decent Homes Standard, which sets the minimum requirements for safety, security, and comfort. Of Cornwall Council's 10,400 social housing units, 200 are presently unoccupied or temporarily vacant.

Over the next five years, the council plans to invest 74 million in repairs, maintenance, and tackling issues like damp and mold. Additionally, a further 140 million is allocated for constructing and acquiring new council homes by 2036/37.

Long-Term Investment

The council anticipates more than 850 million in capital investment over the next 30 years, with 254 million expected within the next eight years, aiming to bring all homes up to a decent standard. The work required to improve the overall condition of the housing stock is estimated to need an additional 24 million.

The HRA business plan will be reviewed by the cabinet this month, followed by consultations with tenants. A final decision on the rent increase and other proposals is expected in March.

Sources:

• Rent rise aims to improve housing standards