New funding to help residents heat their homes

National Grid Warm Homes Fund

Further money has been secured for a scheme to install around 100 gas central heating systems free of charge in homes in the borough which currently do not have one.

It is estimated that around 1,000 homes in Rochdale do not currently have central heating and instead have to rely on expensive methods of heating their home, like gas fires or storage heaters.

The scheme is funded through the National Grid Warm Homes Fund, which is designed to help households living in fuel poverty across the country who struggle to pay for heating and are relying on expensive or inefficient systems.

Councillor Linda Robinson, assistant to the cabinet member for housing and environment at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “We don’t want anybody to be in a position where they avoid putting their heating on in the winter because they’re worried about the cost.

“The money we’ve secured will help set them up with a brand new central heating system for the first time at no cost to them. If residents give us a call today, they can have it installed really quickly and be ready for when winter arrives.”

People can only qualify if they don’t currently have a gas central heating system. The scheme is first come, first served, so people are advised to get in touch soon. Residents can find out more by phoning energyworks on 0161 785 7417 or emailing energyworks@groundwork.co.uk