We have been investigating a variety of options to upgrade the current heating systems within the multi storey and low rise properties to a more modern, affordable and controllable energy efficient heating system as we are concerned that a number of our members are suffering due to rising energy bills.

We are unable to install gas directly within the buildings.  As a solution we have been investigating the prospect of installing a bio mass heating energy system which is fuelled mainly by wood chip from a purpose built energy centre.  We have been developing proposals, in partnership with NPower and their design team, and are delighted to announce that we have secured a significant funding package to move this forward.

Ground investigation works has been ongoing and is near completion.   The following main elements of the proposed project are in the process of being tendered:

• A new energy centre building which will be located on land to the rear of WWHC offices
• Ground works to lay the pipe work to connect to individual towers and low rise buildings
• Installation of pipe work within each building to individual properties
• Installation within individual properties of a heat interface unit (similar to the size of a traditional domestic gas boiler) which instantaneously heats the hot water and radiators.  The radiators will be controlled by thermostatic valves.

We are hopeful that the project will start on site with the build of the new energy centre mid to late summer, although, this is dependant on tender return costs being contained within the funding package agreed.

A full tenant communication plan will be developed which will incorporate individual house visits pre installation to discuss the works involved, regular tenant liaison meetings and leaflet information to keep our members fully up to date as the project progresses.

We will update tenants further once we have received the outcome of the tender process.

The office re-opens again on Tuesday 28th May at 9:15am.

Paying direct debit is safe, guarantted- you can trust Direct Debit to be totally safe. The Direct Debit Guarantee protects you agasint any incorrect payments and ensures you get your money back if a mistake is made. It is also convenient and easy- Your bills are paid on time every time, with no missed paymentsd or hassle. 

Make the switch today to stay effortlessly on top of your bill payments and you’ll be entered into the Big Break prize draw to have your bills paid for a year to the value of £12,000. Every tenant who switches to direct debit, Allpay will make a donation to Shelter.

Please contact your housing officer on 01416418628 or via the contacts us page if you wish to switch to direct debit.

Happy Easter!

A cooking demonstration workshop was held on International Women’s Day in St Columbkille’s Church Hall, Rutherglen, on 5th March 2013 with our in house chef cooking up some tasty healthy and hearty recipes – 400 people attended the event.

 The Management Committee consulted on a 4.75% rent rise, however following the consultation and on further consideration the Management Committee decided to cut the rent rise proposed in light of hardships tenants are facing and agreed on an inflation plus 0.7% rise.

 Full details of your rent charges will be issued to all tenants/members.

On Thursday 7th March 2013, West Whitlawburn Housing Co-operative along with The See How You Can Benefit project, are holding an information session in the Whitlawburn Community Resource Centre between 6pm and 7:30pm. Come along and ask questions about how these changes will affect you and your tenancy.

Thank you.

Rent Setting Letter 201314