Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: February 16, 2026

Purpose: Cabinet will be asked to agree to the proposals for the annual housing rent and service charge increase for 2026/27 across all Council owned residential properties.

Content: Cabinet agreed to:   i)  Increase the rent for Council owned properties including specialist accommodation held in both the Housing Revenue Account and the General Fund by 4.8%.   ii)  Increase all service charges by 4.8% except Newcastle Furniture Service which are to be frozen with no uplift this year.   iii)  Freeze Garage Rents with no uplift this year.   iv)  Heating infrastructure charge which is to increase in line with rents.   v)  All changes will apply from Wednesday 1st April 2026.   vi)  Approve the updated Rent Setting Policy.   vii)  Note the results of the Tenant Satisfaction measures for 2024-25.