Plans to improve the energy efficiency of Westfield homes
In recent months we have been working in partnership with other housing associations in Cumbria and Eden District Council on an application for grant funding from the governments Social Housing De-Carbonisation Fund. This fund has been set up to support housing associations to make energy efficiency improvements to some of their least efficient homes.
This application has now been made and we have applied for works to 46 homes. The proposed works are different at different properties, but the main measures planned include a mix of loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, internal wall insulation, replacement windows and external doors and upgrades to heating controls. The cost of these works is estimated at £895,000. Grant funding of nearly £440,000 has been requested towards these costs.
The result of the application should be known in February. If successful works should start on the first homes in June 2023, with works completed to all homes by November 2024. The works should significantly reduce fuel bills (an average estimated saving per home, based on current prices, of £380 per year), reduce heat loss and make homes warmer and more comfortable.
We have contacted the tenants of the 46 homes in the application by letter. In the new year we will be holding an open event to give more information about the project and the benefits it will bring, and to give the opportunity for further discussion. We will also provide further information on our wider energy efficiency plans.
If you require any more information on this project, or on energy efficiency improvements more generally, please do not hesitate to contact us.