A PROPOSAL that Mendip District Council will promote and advise residents how to successfully apply for the Green Homes Grant Scheme was made by Michael Gay, Green Party councillor for Postlebury Ward (which covers the villages south-west of Frome), and approved with cross-party support at the recent full council meeting.
Aimed at providing householders and landlords with substantial grants to get much- needed green improvements such as loft and floor insulation, double or triple-glazed windows and energy-efficient doors, the Government has said the scheme will start in September, so there is no time to lose.
Cllr. Gay said, “Winter is coming! If you are worried about draughty cold rooms and heating bills, get the Government to pay a decent sum towards an improvement. If you rent, ask your landlord to apply. People with the least money may qualify for a grant of up to £10,000 and pay nothing.
“I’m concerned the Government haven’t explained exactly how it will work, but have said the scheme will only last six months. It’s vital that MDC finds out the details so residents in Mendip are well-informed and ready from the very start to apply. The Government say the work must be done by local qualifying tradespeople, and will pay them the money directly.
“With £2billion in the fund, we need as much of that spent in Mendip as possible to meet our carbon targets. It’s a practical step that’s good for local residents and good for local businesses.”
