Rents paid by council tenants in Brent could go up by almost three per cent to help cover improvement works and new fire safety measures.

Brent Council launched a consultation on the issue after it suggested a rent increase of 2.7 per cent for 2020/21.

This represents an average of an extra 55p per week, with the cost of utilities, helpline and concierge services set to go up.

The council said the additional revenue will support improvements to council homes in the borough, day to day repairs and the installation of “new technology”.

It added the money would also be used to deliver a new fire safety programme.

If approved, the council intends to spend £3 million on new fire safety measures in council homes.

A further £13.5 million would be set aside for building investments, another £10 million would cover day to day repairs and £500,000 would contribute towards estate improvements.

The council added that it plans to invest more than £300 million on new family homes in the borough over the next five years.

Rent levels have decreased in each of the past four years and, according to the council, this proposed increase is in line with the regulator for social housing’s rent standard guidance.

As part of the proposed programme, cleaning, ground maintenance, laundry and TV aerial costs will remain the same.

Residents have until January 26 to voice their opinions on the suggestions – they can email HousingFeedback@brent.gov.uk or complete a survey on the council’s website.