Homeowners in east Suffolk are being offered the chance to access grants of up to £7,000 to provide accommodation for workers at the new Sizewell C nuclear power station.
Two new grant schemes, administered by East Suffolk Council, are set to open soon - with the first, the Renovation Grant, supporting the conversion of homes, spare rooms, annexes or non-residential buildings into safe and suitable accommodation for Sizewell C workers.
Under this scheme, up to £7,000 is available per bed space to cover structural works, electrical wiring, heating installation, windows and doors, plumbing, installing kitchen and bathroom facilities and additional parking.
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The grant will also cover the creation of Homes of Multiple Occupation (HMOs) to licensable standards.
The second grant scheme - called Minor Works Grants - provides financial support of up to £3,000 per bed space for people wishing to repurpose an unused bedroom for use by Sizewell C workers.
Eligible works covered by this scheme include redecoration, new floor coverings, electrical improvements, additional heating, replacement windows and the installation of a new hand basin.
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Councillor David Beavan, the council's cabinet member for housing, said: “The construction of Sizewell C will bring workers into the district who will be looking for accommodation in and around the Sizewell area.
"Property owners with a spare room, annexe or garage who are interested in converting this space into a safe and comfortable living space for a Sizewell C worker are welcome to apply for funding to help bring this space to a lettable standard.”
Drop in sessions have started across the district to enable people to find out more about the schemes.
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On Wednesday, December 6, a drop-in will be held at Southwold Library from 10am to 1pm, while on Tuesday, January 7 the event will be at Framlingham Library from 9.30am to 12.30pm.
On Wednesday, January 15, Saxmundham Library will host the drop-in from 9.30am to 12.30pm, while on Monday, January 20 the event will be at Woodbridge Library from 10am to 1pm.
Finally, on Wednesday, February 5, Aldeburgh Library will host the drop-in from 9.30am to 12.30pm.
More details about the grants can be found on the East Suffolk Council website.
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