VOTE: 24,000 Scunthorpe homes could get subsidised insulation

SCUNTHORPE residents could soon be enjoying warmer homes and fuller wallets as an energy saving scheme is rolled out.

About 2,500 residents are saving more than £300 a year on energy bills by insulating their properties as part of the GoWarm Scunthorpe initiative.

It is a partnership between North Lincolnshire Council and leading fuel poverty organisation GoWarm which was launched last year.

It could now help more than 24,000 extra homes as the scheme is rolled out across the town.

Councillor Mick Grant, cabinet member for housing and strategic planning at North Lincolnshire Council, supports the scheme.

He said: "Insulating your home is a great way to protect your pocket and the planet, with figures showing it can save people up to £300 a year on energy bills and reduce their annual carbon emissions by up to one tonne.

"It may be simple, but it's certainly effective."

Anyone over 70 or in receipt of certain benefits will qualify for a range of free energy efficiency measures. And everyone is able to take advantage of heavily subsidised work, such as cavity wall and loft insulation.

Karen Hindhaugh, director of GoWarm, said: "GoWarm has already helped more than 95,000 homes across the North East and Yorkshire since it was launched at the end of 2007 and we would encourage householders across Scunthorpe to complete the short doorstep assessment when the assessor calls so that we can help them too.

"They may well be surprised by what they're entitled to."

Homes across Scunthorpe will begin receiving letters and flyers within the next few weeks, followed by a visit by a door-step assessor.

The assessor, who will wear a dark green GoWarm uniform and carry a photo ID card, will offer more information and determine eligibility. Visit www.gowarm.org.uk