Council house tenants in Dundee are being urged to make their views known on future rent levels.

City council housing convener Councillor Jimmy Black said every tenant was being given the chance to take part in a two-month consultation.

"The council is undertaking a substantial improvement programme for its housing stock to enable it to meet its legal obligation for the Scottish Housing Quality Standard by 2015 and we depend on the income from rents to achieve this," he said."We want to hear from our tenants on the rent proposals and that is why a very comprehensive consultation is under way. It has been planned in such a way that it will make it as easy as possible for tenants to give us their feedback by returning the form being sent to them, visiting one of the housing offices, taking part in an online survey, or emailing or texting the council.

-- Advertisement --

"A lot of information is being provided to tenants through a variety of methods because we want them to be fully aware of the options, not just for the next financial year but for the following three years as well so that they have an idea about future rent levels."

Three options are proposed for new rent charges, ranging from 4.5% to 5%, with the higher figures allowing more money for improved maintenance of housing stock.

Tenants are being contacted to seek their views on the options and are being invited to complete feedback forms.

Councillor Black said tenants were also being encouraged to go along to one of the special drop-in events being held this month:

Wednesday November 17 between 2pm and 5pm at the West District Housing Office's community lounge at 3 Sinclair Street, Lochee;

Monday November 22 between 6pm and 8.30pm in Committee Room 1, 14 City Square;

Thursday November 25 between 2pm and 5pm in the East District Housing Office's community lounge at 160 Pitkerro Road.

"The drop-in events will be a good way for tenants not only to learn about the rent proposals but they can also get information on housing benefits and council tax, energy efficiency advice, welfare rights and money advice, " added Councillor Black.

"We would like to get feedback from our tenants on the rents proposal by December 31 and the council will be meeting on January 24 to discuss rent levels and other charges."

(GK)