The survey helps tenants put their opinions forward to the housing service and inform Councillors’ decisions about a proposed price rise when the Council budget is set next year.
Like Councils throughout Scotland, Stirling is facing another tough budget challenge next year and potentially for the years to come, as costs go up and funding reduces.
The cost of running the Housing Service is estimated to rise by £653,000 in 2020/21. This takes into account budget efficiency savings which must be made, employee costs, inflation and increased loan charges.
Two options on future rent levels
Two options have been put forward in the consultation, representing average increases of £2.35 per week or £2.94 per week.
Stirling Council Service Manager for Housing Management Development, Craig Russell, said: “We are constantly striving to improve the quality of our stock and the services we can provide to both current and prospective tenants.
“We already have plans in place to invest £17.5 million in our stock and new builds next year.
“Our rent charges are among the lowest in Scotland and in order to continue repair and maintenance levels across our 5,500-plus homes, and meet increased running costs, rents will have to increase each year.
“We want to hear your thoughts on how much you want your rent to increase by, so we understand what your priorities are and can help Councillors make an informed decision at next year’s budget-setting meeting.”
Give your views by 20th December
To take part please go to www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/Rent20-21. The survey is open until 5pm on Friday 20th December.
A final decision on any rent rise will be made at a future Special Council Budget meeting next spring.
As well as taking part in the rent consultation, there are other opportunities for residents to have their say, including:
- Attending your local Registered Tenant Organisation (RTO) meeting.
- Becoming a member of our Tenant Panel and/or Tenant Voices.
For more information on any of the options above, please contact the Council’s Independent Tenant Participation Officer Leza Lafferty on 01786 237661.