Stirling Council has approved a 7.2% rent increase for council tenants for the 2025/26 financial year. The increase will generate approximately £18.5 million, which will be reinvested in the council's housing stock.

The decision follows a consultation with tenants, with 61% of respondents supporting a 7.2% increase. Stirling Council's average rent remains significantly lower than other social landlords in the area.

"Investment of almost £18.5 million will not only bring additional homes into our council stock, but enhance the quality of existing housing across our communities," said Councillor Gerry McGarvey, Leader of Stirling Council. "We are committed to reinvesting every penny from rent increases into our housing services, and remain dedicated to improving energy efficiency in our homes."

-- Advertisement --

Key areas of investment include:

• New Home Development: £18.446 million will be invested in the development of 89 new council homes, supported by £4.2 million in Scottish Government grant funding.

• Housing Upgrades:

– £1.75 million will be allocated to the installation of 212 new kitchens.

– £900,000 will be used to replace 145 bathrooms.

– £1.3 million will be invested in a central heating programme to replace outdated boilers and inefficient systems.

• Energy Efficiency: £1.75 million will be committed to installing up to 170 solar panel systems and 100 battery storage systems in council homes.

Stirling Council will now notify tenants of the rent increase for the 2025/26 period.