Torridge residents enjoying warm homes and cheaper heating thanks to £1.5m grant

People living in housing association homes in Torridge are already reaping the benefits of cheaper and warmer homes thanks to a £1.5million government grant.

Torridge District Council has said Westward Housing customers in 113 local homes are reaping the rewards of the ‘decarbonisation funding’ provided as part of a £20m pot from the government’s Community Regeneration Partnership Scheme for various projects across the district.

Homes with a current E or energy F rating are being upgraded to a C or above. Improvements have included adding or increasing insulation, higher specification windows and doors, heating systems and other changes to make homes warmer and more affordable to heat.

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When asked if it was worth getting the work done to her home, Westward customer, Susan, said: “Definitely. Not just for energy savings, but for the look of the house and the feel inside. My home is a lot warmer and more comfortable. It feels really cosy.”

The council said early feedback from customers was ‘very encouraging’, with many already saying they are warmer and are saving money on their energy bills. This is prior to completing other measures to their homes.

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Westward customers Linda and Andrew had multiple measures installed in their bungalow as part of the project, including new windows.

Andrew said: “The windows are fantastic, ever since they put them in, we’ve had no problems.” His partner Linda added, “no moisture, no condensation - absolutely fantastic.”

Councillor Ken James, leader of Torridge District Council, said he was pleased that residents were starting to feel the benefits of the funding.

He added: “I am delighted that some of these households are already experiencing warmer homes which are cheaper to heat and more enjoyable to live in because of these measures.

“It’s fantastic to be working in partnership with Westward Housing and I look forward to exploring more opportunities to work together to deliver further benefits to the residents of Torridge.”

Stephen Lodge, Westward’s chief executive, said: “This funding gives us the opportunity to help make life a bit more affordable for these customers. I am delighted for the 113 households who will experience warmer homes that are cheaper to heat and more enjoyable to live in because of this partnership working.

“We can now achieve more sustainable homes for our customers to enjoy, with lasting improvements on comfort and cost.”