Swindon council plans significant improvements to its housing stock with a £250m investment over five years.
Some homes are old, dating back to the 1800s. Many are not traditional builds, and these have technical issues. Over 230 homes are in high-rise flats.
About ten percent of homes aren’t up to standard. Post-war builds need help, and Railway Village homes need work too. High-rise flats need investment.
The council hasn’t invested enough; roofs and windows need repairs. Kitchens also need updates. This causes more urgent repairs.
The council will prioritize homes needing work. They will fix bathrooms and heating, and kitchens, roofs, windows, and doors face upgrades.
The council pledges £250 million for social housing. This fund supports the housing improvement plan, a 78% increase from before.
The council must borrow £152 million. The rest comes from rent money. This account only pays for housing upkeep.
Last December, the council alerted the housing regulator. The regulator inspects housing services now.