21 May 2008
Wealden wins grant to help improve poor housing
Wealden District Council has a secured a grant of £630,540 to be spent on helping low-income private householders bring their homes up to acceptable modern standards.
“As people live longer and expect to stay in their homes, these grants will be vital in helping vulnerable people or those on low or fixed incomes, to bring their homes up to a decent standard, and in particular, improve the energy efficiency of their homes,” said Councillor Margaret Kirkpatrick, Cabinet member for Housing.
“Changes in the way the government allocates its support mean that this money is no longer given to specific councils. But by working together with housing authorities in East Sussex and Brighton, we have secured £18.6 million for the region. This has been a very good example of partnership working.”
Wealden’s share of the Private Sector Renewal money is for a three year period and will help ensure residents on low or fixed incomes can continue to live in houses that are healthy, warm and comfortable.
“We need to look at how best we can support older Wealden residents who want to stay in their home, particularly in such a widespread rural community like Wealden. These grants will be great help,” added Councillor Kirkpatrick.
Some of the money from the South East Regional Housing Board will be allocated in grants, and some will be offered in repayable loans.
Wealden has identified some 300 homes of vulnerable residents which need improvements to meet current standards. The biggest problem is a lack of insulation and decent heating.
