Public sector rents in the island are set to rise by 2%, with effect from April next year.

This was announced by the Department of Infrastructure following a consultation with the island’s 15 local housing authorities.

The rise has been considered in light of ongoing economic pressure from the coronavirus pandemic and the rising cost of building and maintenance materials.

Government said that the impacts of both factors continue to be felt and are affecting routine repairs and redevelopment projects.

Infrastructure Minister Tim Crookall MHK said: ’The rising cost of maintenance is a concern for the local authorities and the department as a whole, especially the housing team.

’The cost of materials for use in both general repairs and redevelopment projects continues to increase and provision must be made to accommodate this trend.’

To demonstrate the change, the government said a one-bed house with an average weekly rent for 2022/23 of £65.87 would face an increase of £1.29.

A two bed of £96.93 would go up by £2.17 and a four-bed house with a weekly rent of £136.75 would see an increase of £2.68.

Those who will not be affected by the change include tenants who have their rental costs met by the government as part of their income-assessed social security benefits.

Public sector tenants are being reminded by the government that help is available should they find themselves struggling to meet their financial obligations.

In the first instance, they should contact their housing provider who may be able to assist them with a repayment plan. Housing customers could also consider contacting the Social Security Division within the Treasury, where staff can provide advice regarding any financial assistance for which they may be eligible. The new charges will officially come into effect on April 1, 2022.