Darlington Council has insisted it has not ditched its promise to help residents with the cost of living.

The Labour-Liberal Democrat authority faced criticism from opposition councillors after announcing plans to increase the rents of council-owned homes in the borough by about seven per cent. 

It is the highest ever increase for council tenants, and will see some residents pay over £5 more per month. The increase, approved by cabinet last week, means an average social rent will cost £83.98 and an affordable rent £94.17.

It follows the previous five per cent increase in February 2023, and will affect more than 5,000 homes currently provided by the council in the borough.

One of the Labour Party’s key manifesto commitments ahead of the local elections last May was to help with the cost of living and improve regulations around council-owned and rented housing. Yet leaders were challenged on the latest decision nine months after returning to office. 

Independent councillor Kevin Nicholson said: “You said you would reduce the cost of living and at the first opportunity you’re increasing people’s bills every month. Why are you reneging on that promise to residents?”

The Eastbourne member’s concerns came after residents responded to the rise with caution last year. 

One respondent said: “I think it is too much, it doesn't matter one bit what we think, it is sure to go ahead. More people than ever are using foodbanks, people have to now make a decision on keeping warm or eating. Council rent is catching up to the so-called affordable rent, it isn't really affordable at all.”

However, the council said the rise is one of the lowest in the North East. and residents will continually be supported by the council. 

Local authority officials warned the council has faced “substantial” financial pressures over the last 12 months particularly around inflation and the cost of materials and services to maintain its homes. And due to the need to continually maintain and improve housing, the increase was vital, the council said. 

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Cllr Matthew Roche, cabinet member for housing, responded: “There are many things we have outlined in how we are tackling the cost of living. 

“One policy in isolation does not mean we have reneged on that promise. The support that tenants will get will continue and we will continue to look at what we need to do to enhance that. 

“We will redouble our efforts to help people during the cost of living crisis.”