COUNCIL house rents in Darlington may increase by only half the sum originally proposed.

The move is aimed at helping tenants who are struggling because of the financial downturn.

At a meeting of Darlington Borough Council cabinet on Tuesday, councillors will be recommended to approve a proposal to reduce the average weekly rent increases from 6.02 per cent, which equates to £3.21, to 2.98 per cent, which is £1.59.

The review of rents for the 2009-10 financial year took place in February when an average weekly increase of 6.02 per cent was agreed in line with Government guidelines.

But in March, the Communities and Local Government outlined proposals for reducing average guidelines.

The council will be compensated for loss of income.

Coun Bill Dixon, cabinet member for neighbourhood services and community safety, said: “The cuts we are proposing to this year’s rent increases will, I hope, go some way to easing the financial burden on our tenants, many of whom will be feeling the strain as a result of the current economic situation.”

Letters will be sent to council tenants outlining changes. Anyone struggling to pay rent should contact the council on 01325-388542.