St Nicholas street pedestrianisation and energy bills
It was a pleasure to visit businesses on St Nicholas Street last month. In addition to speaking about plans for pedestrianising the street, concerns were also raised with me about energy bills. I know that in addition to domestic users many local businesses, across the Town, have really struggled with energy prices. I also know that many have been frustrated when they see wholesale prices fall but they themselves aren’t yet feeling the benefit of this.
It will feed through in time, but it is vital this happens as soon as possible. Recently I spoke in the chamber and I was pleased to hear that the Secretary of State shares my views and is working to deliver the outcome we all want.
Cost of Living Packages
In the Chamber today I welcomed the new cost of living packages announced to support both businesses and domestic users.
Yesterday, I was contacted by a resident of Orwell Quay, with concerns about the 300% increase they are facing in their service charge as a result of rising energy costs. This Service Charge will cover communal costs such as hallway lights, sewage and water pumping costs and garage facilities.
I wanted to ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy about his plan to support all those with service charges who are in a similar position to those residents in Orwell Quay. I was encouraged by his response. The Secretary of State was clear in assuring me that the benefits of this scheme would be passed on to residents and individuals, and that this will be enforced through new legislation.