iStockCouncil tenants across Aberdeenshire will see their rent rise by 5% from the start of April as the local authority looks to raise crucial cash.
The move will mean residents’ weekly charge will go up by an average of £4.63.
So, for example, someone currently paying £92.56 would find their weekly payment hiked up to £97.19.
The proposal had been created following consultation with council tenants and an agreement to raise charges to this level last year.
A three-year strategy of a 5% rent rise was agreed by members of the communities committee ahead of setting the 2024 budget.
The move is believed to generate more than £4.69m for the local authority over the agreed three-year period.
A further 5% increase is expected to come into force next year, too.
The proposed rent change went before full council earlier today.
Infrastructure director Alan Wood said the proposed fees and charges for the next 12 months were seen as “consistent and appropriate”.
Councillor Anne Stirling revealed the increase had been the product of an “in-depth engagement” with residents.
She added: “It was clear from the consultation that both current and prospective tenants wanted stable rises in place.
“Despite the financial pressures upon us, these are considered to continue to be affordable to both tenants and the housing revenue account.”
The 5% rise will also be in effect at the gypsy/traveller sites at Greenbanks in Banff and Aikey Brae near Mintlaw.
Meanwhile, rent for allotments across the region will rise by 5% too.
However, there is one positive to come from the discussions.
Heat and light charges for the next year will be reduced by 24%.
This would see the average charge for a three-bedroom property fall from £60.90 to £46.53 per week.
Anyone paying a heating-only charge will also see their bill decrease.
Using a two-bedroom home as an example, that weekly charge would drop from £21.67 to £16.56.
The new rates will come into force across Aberdeenshire on April 1.
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