Shropshire Star

New strategy to tackle fuel poverty in Telford

A new strategy is being explored to reduce the number of houses classed as being in fuel poverty in Telford and Wrekin.

Published
Last updated

More than 7,000 households across the borough are considered to be in fuel poverty.

Telford & Wrekin Council's 'Affordable Warmth Strategy' will target areas with the highest fuel poverty levels, address inequalities and improve the health and wellbeing of those who are most vulnerable.

It includes proposals for a pilot project targeting approximately 50 properties for a range of energy improvement measures using government grants of up to £10,000 per property.

The results of this pilot will be used to establish the impact this investment can have and support bids for further grants.

The strategy, currently in draft form, will be presented to Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet when it meets on April 22.

The cabinet is recommended to agree to a six-week consultation.

When implemented, there will be annual updates on its progress.

Councillor David Wright, Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet member for housing, said: “More than 7,000 households in Telford and Wrekin are considered to be in fuel poverty.

Protect

"This is below the national and regional average and reflects work we’ve already done in tackling this issue over the last two years.

“It does mean, however, that there are residents in homes that are cold and damp, with poor energy efficiency and who are paying more than they can afford on heating.

“We want to make householders more aware about energy efficiency which, as well as saving money, will protect the health of our most vulnerable residents.

"This, in turn will reduce the strain on health and social care services.

"It will also help us deliver our climate change action plan by reducing carbon emissions.

“We are committed to helping people improve the quality of their homes and, with it, their quality of life.

"If people aren’t spending as much on their energy bills, they will have money to spend on other things further supporting local jobs and the local economy.

“Decent homes are key to improving quality of life and this new strategy is just one of the ways we are working to try to improve the health and wellbeing of local residents."

Sorry, we are not accepting comments on this article.