Hundreds of Perth and Kinross Council tenants are bracing themselves for a significant 267% surge in garden maintenance fees for the upcoming year. The decision to implement a staggering £330.20 increase in the annual Garden Maintenance Scheme fee starting April has stirred mixed reactions from councillors. Amidst rising pressures, PKC has opted to withdraw its subsidy for the scheme, paving the way for all tenants to access the service.
The hike in fees, which was narrowly approved by councillors, sparked disagreements within the Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee. Notably, Conservative and Independent councillors defied the decision, expressing dissent over the substantial increase. The move was mandated as part of the financial strategy for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) of Perth and Kinross Council.
A report presented during the council meeting outlined a significant escalation in the operational costs of the Garden Maintenance Scheme, prompting the proposal to raise the annual fee from £123.76 to £453.96. Additionally, an extra £46.80 annual charge for hedge cutting was recommended. The council assured that all existing tenants enrolled in the scheme had been duly informed about the proposed fee adjustments along with available support options.
Moreover, the revamped scheme is set to be extended to all tenants, eliminating the previous limitations that confined access to vulnerable tenants only. Tom McEwan, the Convener, emphasised the inclusivity of the new service, highlighting that it will be accessible to all 8000 tenants within the HRA without restrictions based on age or benefits eligibility. McEwan acknowledged the significant rise in charges, acknowledging the potential financial strain it may impose on some residents.
Looking ahead, councillors plan to review the impact of the fee increase after a year, during the formulation of the subsequent year’s Housing Revenue Account financial plan. This evaluation aims to assess the feasibility of the hike and explore alternative measures if deemed necessary.
In a concurrent decision, councillors agreed upon a six percent increase in rent as part of the financial plan. Consequently, the average weekly rent for a PKC tenant is set to escalate to £84.52 effective April 7, 2025. The approved increment is envisaged to contribute towards bolstering the financial sustainability of the council’s housing operations.
These adjustments in fees and rent signify a strategic shift towards achieving cost recovery within the Housing Revenue Account, streamlining the financial framework to better align with current challenges and demands.
This new direction signals a proactive effort by PKC to ensure the sustainability and efficiency of essential services and operations, safeguarding the interests of tenants while navigating fiscal constraints effectively.