The Association’s chairperson, Charlie Millar, said: “Over the last decade we have demonstrated that we can maintain rents at an affordable level whilst delivering on our commitment to provide high quality services and continue to invest in the maintenance of our housing stock.

“Whilst in the middle of a global health crisis, we recognise that households and businesses are experiencing extreme financial pressures as a result of Covid-19 pandemic and it is important that the Association plays its part in helping our tenants and customers in these exceptional times.

“Our level of rent collection has remained strong, despite the challenges of Covid-19, and we acknowledge the efforts of our tenants and commercial customers to prioritise their rental payments above other cash outlays. However, we also realise that it is important to reach a balanced position whereby we safeguard the sustainability of our local businesses and the continuation of tenancies, hence the reason for the rent freeze.

“The comments received from the tenants who responded to our proposal as part our annual rent review consultation, expressed their strong support and agreement and we are delighted to formally approve this decision.”