Concerns raised about excessive service charge increases at Lesley Souter House, Albert Square and Tanser Court

Councillor Neil Sandison (Eastlands) has raised concerns about the proposed increase in service charge at Lesley Souter House, Albert Square and Tanser Court.

As part of Rugby Borough Council's rent setting proposals an extra-ordinary large service charge is being levied on three sheltered housing schemes catering for elderly and disabled residents receiving long term care.

The 258% increase which equates to £33.50 per week or £134 .00 per month only applies to three schemes at Lesley Souter House, Albert Square and Tanser Court.

Commenting Councillor Neil Sandison (Eastlands), said:

"This charge is not being levied for the energy use within their own flats but is on top of that and relates to the heating and lighting of communal areas, which is not in the control of individual residents. It's going to hit those who do not receive state benefits but live on their pensions or certain disability allowances outside of current government schemes.

"We recognize these properties are in need of updating to non-fossil fuel-based systems, but to penalise the residents in the interim does not seem equitable and Rugby Borough Council should offer as much discretionary help as it can to those who could face hardship or health problems trying to find extra money to meet inflated rises in their communal energy costs."