News

The Borough of Poole has won over £800k that will help to improve homes in the town.

As part of the Council's bid to expand its successful Private Sector Housing Assistance Policy, the £400,000 per year grant awarded by the Government for the next two years, is good news for home owners, those renting and accredited landlords in Poole.

The bid by the Borough's Housing and Community Services will be used to give grants and interest free equity loans to help vulnerable people on low incomes. The financial assistance will be used to have repairs and improvements carried out on the properties to help meet the Government's new "Decent Home Standard".

Trevor George, Private Sector Housing Manager, said: "The new funding means that we will be able to help even more people and raise standards in both the private rented and owner/occupied homes to reach the Government's decent home standard. Grants and equity release loans will be made available to vulnerable low income owner/occupiers, as well as accredited landlords who have shown commitment in raising standards by signing up to Poole Landlord Accreditation Scheme. This could involve assistance towards improvements to kitchens, bathrooms and/or essential repairs, insulation and energy efficiency works helping residents have a decent, comfortable home which also saves them money".

Trevor added: "Even though the funding will not be available until April, we want anyone who thinks they need assistance to contact us as soon as possible so that we can assess their needs and eligibility. This means that we can set aside the money and ensure it goes to the right people."

Cllr Bill Wretham the Housing Portfolio Holder for the Borough of Poole, said: "In Poole there are many vulnerable older, or disabled people who need help to maintain their homes. This funding is very positive news and shows that Poole is very committed to attaining the "Decent Home Standard" across all areas of housing whether Council owned or privately rented. Along with the forthcoming ALMO which will raise money for investment in the Council's housing stock, the success of this bid means we can act to improve on all housing fronts over the next few years."