Residents in Peasedown St John are being given the opportunity to raise their concerns about proposed new service charges that are looking to be introduced by social housing provider, Curo.
At a public meeting being organised by B&NES Councillors, Karen Walker and Sarah Bevan, Curo tenants can ask questions about the new charges.
Cllr Karen Walker (Independent, Peasedown St John) said: “Residents were concerned after they received a letter last month informing them that they would soon have to start paying for communal services when they had not done so before. Cllr Bevan and I have been overwhelmed with emails, phone calls and messages from Curo tenants, who are all feeling worried about the new charges.”
Tenants living in Sheltered Housing areas have always had to contribute to communal services, such as towards Community Room upkeep in St John’s Close and Hillcrest. Tenants in other areas, such as Albert Avenue and Frederick
Avenue, have not been subject to such charges before.
Curo Homes, who came into being in 2013, succeeded Somer Housing, which was created after B&NES sold its stock of council houses in 1999.
Cllr Sarah Bevan (Independent, Peasedown St John) added: “These new
service charges include tenants having to contribute towards the cleaning of
communal areas, grounds maintenance, management costs and the upkeep of
children’s playgrounds. Cllr Walker and I want to hear from more Curo tenants, so we can accurately represent their views when lobbying the social housing provider.”
The public meeting will be held at St John’s Community Room, St John’s Close
(BA2 8JG) on Wednesday, 16th November at 6.30 p.m.