Hillingdon Council's Cabinet has approved a £45 million investment plan to upgrade and improve the borough's housing stock, aiming to enhance living conditions and ensure residents reside in decent homes.

The Housing Forward Investment Programme for 2026/27 will see significant investment in council homes, with approximately £31 million allocated for direct capital works, over £10 million for the Green Homes Initiative, and more than £4 million for adaptations to support residents with disabilities.

A person sits on the ground with a cardboard sign that reads
A person sits on the ground with a cardboard sign that reads "HOMELESS PLEASE HELP."

Councillor Jonathan Bianco, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Corporate Services & Property, outlined the programme. The investment will involve extensive roofing works, the replacement of windows in around 500 homes to improve thermal efficiency, and the renewal of approximately 1,000 kitchens and 800 bathrooms.

Criteria for Home Upgrades:

  • Roofing works: Properties requiring essential roofing works have been identified through referrals from the Reactive Repairs team and analysis of the Council's asset database. These locations are currently being surveyed by external consultants to confirm the scope of works, cost estimates, and programme viability.
  • Window replacements: The Window Renewal Programme will prioritise the replacement of first-generation metal and aluminium-framed windows in solid wall properties, targeting approximately 500 homes as an initial phase. These windows have been identified through asset data and stock condition surveys as contributing to poor thermal performance, cold bridging, and increased condensation risk.
  • Kitchen and Bathroom Renewals: Approximately 1,000 kitchens and 800 bathrooms are planned for replacement. These programmes will support compliance with the Decent Homes Standard.

The Green Homes Initiative aims to improve properties with an EPC rating below C to meet government standards by 2030. Measures to be implemented include insulation and heat recovery systems, with the goal of improving energy efficiency, reducing fuel poverty, and enhancing living conditions for residents. The programme also includes boiler replacements, lift upgrades, and improvements to fire safety and emergency lighting.

A bar and line chart showing the number and percentage of assessed people seen rough sleeping in Hillingdon by fiscal year.
A bar and line chart showing the number and percentage of assessed people seen rough sleeping in Hillingdon by fiscal year.

The £4 million allocated for adaptations for residents with disabilities is to support those with disabilities and mobility needs in line with the council's duties under the Equality Act 2010. This programme ensures that reasonable adjustments are made to enable residents to live safely and independently in their homes.

Councillor Ian Edwards, Leader of the Council, praised the comprehensive programme. Authority has been delegated to the Corporate Director of Residents Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Services & Property, to manage the delivery of the programme within approved budgets and contracts. The full details of the programme can be found in the Cabinet Report: Housing HRA Forward Investment Programme 26-27 06 - REPORT Cabinet Report- Housing HRA Forward investment programme 26-27.pdf.