Speaking in response to the Government’s announcement that it will permit rent convergence - so that councils can bring rents on some social accommodation into line with other properties – Cllr Tom Hunt, Chair of the LGA’s Inclusive Growth Committee said:
“This is an important step in the right direction, as more must be done to ensure that all people can live in a safe, warm, and decent standard home. This comprehensive package from the Government responds to our long-standing call to re-introduce rent convergence and will provide additional support for council housing finances.”
“While the phasing of its implementation may impact the delivery of some new homes in the short term, measures within this package will give councils greater certainty and confidence to invest in the long term.”
“The changes to the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) threshold will mean councils can deliver new social and affordable homes more easily. It will be important that councils are properly funded so they can deliver at scale.”