Anger as cost of renting Peterborough garages more than doubles

Cross Keys Homes Head Office on Shrewsbury Avenue ENGEMN00120130619150708

Terrance De Brystow, who rents a garage in Cumberland House off St Mary’s Court in the city centre was one of dozens of residents who received a letter from Cross Key’s Homes this week.

Mr De Brystow is currently paying £8.40 per week (including VAT) to rent the garage - but from April 6 the rent will increase by more than £13 a week to £21.60 (including VAT) (Rising from £7 to £18 excluding VAT).

He said: “I received a letter from Cross Key’s Homes notifying me that my garage rent would be increased from £8.40 per week up to £21.60 a rise of £13.20 per week to confirm with the local trend.

“I have been given three weeks notification to find an alternative.

“I store my family heirlooms there, but now they will have to be sent to auction and sold for a probable pittance against true value.”

Mary Bryce, Director of Supported Housing and Care at Cross Keys Homes said the increase had been introduced to reflect a rise in parking charges in the city. She said: “It has been several years since we assessed our garage charges against other parking providers in Peterborough.

“Parking in the city centre is in high demand and as a result parking costs have risen over the years.

“After completing a benchmarking exercise, we have revised our charges and are now operating different pricing bands dependent on the garage location. I am confident that these still offer a competitive rate when compared to other secure parking options in accessible locations.

“We have written to all customers to make them aware of their new charges which will come into effect in April and are happy to discuss concerns with customers.”

There are currently 1,047 residents renting a lock up in Peterborough from Cross Keys. A total of 117 garages are in the highest city centre price bracket. A total of 47 customers will pay the highest £21.60, as Cross Keys Homes’ residents will be given a discounted rate. A spokesman for the association said no Cross Keys Homes resident would pay more than £12. The lowest cost will be £7.50 per week.