Issue - meetings

(A report by Christian Allen, Assistant Director – Regulatory)

The Portfolio Holder for Housing and Communities presented a report by the Assistant Director – Regulatory which sought Cabinet approval for the operational arrangements for the South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership (SELCP) delivery of the Warm Homes Local Grant and the Home Energy Advice Service.

Cabinet was informed that funding totalling £5,639,974.60 had been secured from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero to support the delivery of energy efficiency grants across South and East Lincolnshire over the next three years. Approximately 22% of this funding was allocated to the Boston area. The report proposed that the experienced team based at East Lindsey District Council continue to deliver the grants on behalf of Boston and South Holland residents, building on the successful approach adopted during the previous two funding rounds.

In addition, a further funding award of £362,720.15 had been secured to extend the Home Energy Advice Service into Boston and South Holland. This service, delivered in partnership with the charity PECT, would provide residents with energy efficiency advice, support, and wider social signposting. The extension followed a successful pilot in East Lindsey and would include the deployment of a mobile electric energy advice vehicle.

Cabinet noted that the programme would be overseen by a Programme Monitoring Board with Portfolio Holder representation from all three councils. The report outlined the eligibility criteria for the grant programme, with a key change being the reintroduction of funding eligibility for properties with mains gas. Additionally, landlords would be eligible for one fully funded property, with subsequent properties requiring a 50% financial contribution. The Energy Advice Service would be open to all residents seeking support with energy bills and information on available funding.

During discussion, Cabinet welcomed the continuation of the programme and the expansion of services into Boston. Members expressed strong support for the inclusion of on-gas properties, recognising the significant benefit this would bring to residents in Boston town. The introduction of mobile advice services was also praised, particularly for its potential to reach rural communities and those unable to access fixed locations. The inclusion of a training budget to support local volunteers as community energy champions was noted as a positive step in strengthening community engagement.

Cabinet acknowledged that while the level of grant funding was lower than initially anticipated, the programme would nonetheless deliver meaningful improvements to energy efficiency and resident wellbeing, particularly in advance of the winter period.

The recommendations were moved by Councillor Chris Mountain and seconded by Councillor Callum Butler.

Resolved:

1.    That the principle of East Lindsey District Council acting as the lead authority and accountable body for the Warm Homes – Local Grant programme and the Home Energy Advice Service on behalf of Boston Borough Council be approved;

2.    That the entering into of an appropriate written agreement between East Lindsey District Council and Boston Borough Council for delivery of the two programmes, subject to legal advice, with delegated authority given to the Assistant Director Regulatory in consultation with the Portfolio Holder to  ...  view the full minutes text for item 5

(A report by Christian Allen, Assistant Director – Regulatory)