Renters are likely to face another hefty 10 per cent increase for their garage again this year.

Warwick District Council agreed in 2021 that garages would go up in price by 10 per cent every year for the next five years.

But a report to councillors has revealed that nearly a third of WDC's garages are currently "void".

This leaves council renting revenues down by £324,200 annually.

Whilst the report said: "Work to review each site to potentially reduce the level of voids and possibly attract additional income is in progress," the council currently has more empty units then it did this time last year.

A report presented to cabinet in February 2021 said 26 per cent of units were empty - approximately £266,650 in potential income over a year.

Rental increases were agreed after market research found private renters were charging up to £80 for garages in the district.

The average charge from WDC sits at £46.71 currently.

For 2022/23, a tenant's weekly charge will increase on average by £1.08 per week from £10.78 to £11.86.

Non-tenants will have to pay VAT as well, meaning an increase of £1.29 per week.

The report also said that demand for sites varied across the area.

"Demand for garages fluctuates with some sites having waiting lists whereas there are vacancies on others.

"This affects the overall rent received value."

The council's cabinet will vote on this year's rent increases tonight, alongside plans for green bin collection charges.

(Image by Nigel Mykura via geograph.org.uk)