Users of Leicester’s district heating scheme will see the rise in their bills capped at 30% lower than had been proposed if revised charges are agreed by city councillors at tonight’s budget meeting (22 Feb).
Asst city mayor for housing Cllr Elly Cutkelvin said that although charges still need to rise, the new proposals would lessen the impact on tenants and leaseholders,
Cllr Cutkelvin said: “There has been a lot of debate about the proposals over the last few months, and I am grateful to everyone who has taken part for their recognition of the many budget pressures we face and the challenging financial position this creates.
“I would particularly like to thank Jean Williams, chair of St Matthew’s tenants’ association, Shokat Seedat, chair of St Peter’s tenants’ association and the Wycliffe ward councillors for their valuable input.
“Following a recent meeting with the chairs and Jon Ashworth MP, we have decided to further support those using the district heating scheme by absorbing an additional £850,000 of the fuel cost increase.”
If the new proposals are agreed tonight, the charge will rise to £1,325 for a one-bedroom property, with the average increase working out at £1,611 a year.
The council is working towards fitting meters in all properties connected to the district heating network at a cost of £2.3m. This will enable tenants and lease holders to pay only for the fuel they use, rather than a fixed cost as is currently the case.
Leicester City Council News 22/02/2023