More council tenants in Stoke-on-Trent are set to get warmer homes as essential improvements get underway to improve energy efficiency. 

The work, including asbestos removal, wall insulation and loft insulation and gas works, is being carried out at around 100 homes with low energy efficiency in Chell and Norton.

The work is being funded with £1.39m from the government's Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund as the council works to meet the 2030 target for all homes to be at an energy efficiency rating of 'C' or above.

Cllr David Mountford, ward councillor for Great Chell and Packmoor, said: "It's about more than just insulation and windows - it's about dignity, decent living conditions and lower bills for families who need it most.

"While this funding is welcome, we will keep pushing for further investment to bring all our council houses up to standard, tackle fuel poverty and deliver real climate action at local level. "

This is the second round of work to improve energy efficiency ratings of homes in Stoke-on-Trent with more than 70 already upgraded through the first wave of the same scheme. 

The improvement work takes up to 10 weeks to complete at each home and aims to take properties below an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of 'C' to rating of 'A', the highest rating for energy efficiency. 

There are hopes the EPC rating of 'A' will result in lower energy bills for tenants. 

Cllr Chris Robinson, cabinet member for housing, planning and governance, said: "This funding has allowed us to carry out essential works to dozens of council properties across the city in preparation for the autumn and winter months.

"This is the second wave of SHDF funding we have been awarded; the first round of funding enabled us to make these vital improvements to over 70 properties in Smallthorne – so we know what benefits these energy efficiency measures can bring.

"We are committed to tackling fuel poverty and we will continue our efforts to improve council-owned homes to ensure all of our residents can live safe, warm and comfortable lives."