CIVIC chiefs have agreed to increase the rent on city council properties across the district. 

The rent will rise by 7.7 per cent, in line with inflation and rising building costs. 

The increases were discussed at Winchester City Council's housing cabinet committee on Monday, February 5. 

The meeting heard that the council consulted Tenants and Council Together (TACT) about the proposals. TACT is a group of council tenants that civic chiefs meet regularly. 

In the council's report, it said: “To date three meetings have taken place with TACT members to explain the challenges the HRA (Housing Revenue Account) is facing. TACT members provided ideas of areas to review at the second meeting and they will need to be considered in the light of the financial challenges, policy options and potential rent increase. At the TACT meeting on January 11 the proposed rent increase of 7.7 per cent was discussed and TACT agreed with the need to increase rents at that level if the investment in homes and services were to be maintained.

READ MORE: Hampshire couple press ahead with forest school and mushroom business

“A 7.7 per cent rent increase would mean the average weekly social rent for existing tenants will be £123.39 a week, an increase of £8.82 per week. The average weekly affordable rent for existing tenants will be £199.45 a week, an increase by £14.26 a week.”

Cllr Chris Westwood, cabinet member for housing, said: “We're in a period of high inflation and building costs have increased by 23 per cent in the last year. We have around 5,000 council homes in the Winchester district. Increasing rent is always a difficult decision. 

“The rent will increase by 7.7 per cent in line with government policy. TACT supports the decision, we are very thankful for their help. Despite challenging circumstances, I believe this is a strong plan.

“The most important part of this is that we have to have a budget that is balanced and financially viable. We have to prioritise where and how we spend tenants' money.

“We are investing in our affordable homes and the quality of our existing homes so they can be run at a lower cost.”

Julian Perkins, TACT member, said: “We're grateful to the council for taking us on board. The consultation gave us a more informed view of how inflation impacts this.”

Cllr Caroline Horrill, Conservative group leader, said: “I welcome the approach to taking our time to review service charges. I also welcome that we are committed to delivering new homes across the district. 

“This is such an important part of the council's work. We should be proud of the work we do for residents.”

The rent increases will be rubber-stamped at the next full council meeting.