Plans for next year are already well advanced and consultation on rent levels is now underway, giving tenants a chance to have their say.

Proposals for a modest increase will allow a major programme of improvements across the council house estate while remaining below the average rent level for Ayrshire and Scotland.

The planned investment starting in 2021/22 includes:

• The launch of a £25 million sheltered housing re-provisioning programme
• At least £5m investment in regeneration projects, and sustainability measures to reduce fuel poverty
• More than half a million pounds on projects driven by tenants, and continuation of the £1m per year programme to regenerate estates.

In addition, more than £15m will be invested into improving existing council homes with plans for over 300 new bathrooms, more than 400 new kitchens, over 1,000 external door replacements, and more than 500 new boiler installations.

Councillor Jim Montgomerie, cabinet member for Green New Deal and sustainability, said: “We’re proud of the housing service we deliver and the value for money our tenants get.

“Our last Tenant Satisfaction Survey showed that more than 92% of our tenants consider that their rent represents value for money. We continue to have one of the lowest rent levels in Ayrshire and our rent levels also remain below the Scottish average.

“Despite this, we are delivering on our ambitious plans in place to build more than 1,500 new council homes across North Ayrshire as well as investing millions in our existing houses, giving tenants the types of homes they want to live in.”

Council tenants are currently being consulted on proposed rent levels for next year and can express their preference for one of two options – a 1.9% increase or a 2.5% increase.

Although both options will help deliver a major investment in the council house programme, the second option will mean that an additional £5m could be utilised to help reduce tenants’ fuel bills, such as additional insulation, solar PV panels and more efficient heating systems.

Tenants who are experiencing difficulties in meeting their rent should contact North Ayrshire Council’s Welfare Reform Advice Team.

New figures show that in the last six months alone, the service has helped residents get financial gains worth more than £900,000 – meaning they are well track to do even better than last year when they helped tenants to the tune of more than £1.6m.

The Welfare Reform Advice Team can provide vital advice and support to access benefits to which tenants are entitled.