East Lothian councillors unanimously backed a 6.5% rent rise for tenants, despite some wanting a larger increase.
SNP councillor Lee-Anne Menzies spoke, stating that low rent isn’t necessarily good; she believes the rent should be raised higher. Menzies checked with nearby councils, noting East Lothian charges up to £18 less each week, making their rents comparatively low.
East Lothian has the third lowest rent in Scotland. Buying houses costs a lot there, and private rents also tend to be very high. Homeless applications are rising, according to officers. People are coming from other areas; Menzies wondered if low rents contribute to this.
Labour’s Andy Forrest spoke about housing, saying the rent rise allows work to continue. They can provide homes and upgrade existing ones. Forrest called it a tough decision, but said the rise helps meet tenants’ needs and allows continued service delivery.
Conservative George McGuire agreed on the 6.5% rise and thinks they need to review county rent soon. He stressed swift action on this review. Councillors unanimously approved the 6.5% rise in a cross-party arrangement, agreeing on this proposal.