Peel Commissioners not adding 'discretionary' one percent increase to social housing rents

It reviewed rent arrear levels and 'escalating' food costs when making the decision

Peel Commissioners will not be using the 'discretionary' one percent increase to its social housing as part of a new scheme by the Department of Infrastructure.

From the next financial year, the DoI is starting a new system by which rents will be set using the Consumer Price Index (CPI) from September this year - with an optional increase for housing authorities.

The local authority says it reviewed the current levels of rent arrears as well as taking into account 'escalating' food prices and high energy costs when making the decision.

Previously, authorities which own social housing (including sheltered accommodation) would have been asked for their view on rent increases with the DoI making a decision based on those responses.