Oswestry Town Council is working with the Marches Energy Agency to help local people access funding for insulation and other energy efficiency measures. This funding is targeted to those who own or privately rent properties in council tax bands A and B, and who have either no loft insulation, or an insufficient amount.

Works will be funded by Oswestry Town Council and advisors from local energy advice service ‘Keep Shropshire Warm’ will guide and support local residents throughout the process.

There is also wider funding available from Shropshire Council’s Sustainable Warmth project, so even those not in council tax bands A and B are encouraged to contact Keep Shropshire Warm to explore their options. This funding covers different insulation types as well as low-carbon heating and is targeted to those on lower incomes.

On Wednesday 12th October, Keep Shropshire Warm will be at the market to speak to interested residents and to discuss any queries you may have. They will be bringing their electric van and will also be very happy to speak to anyone interested in electric vehicles.

Both parties are keen to work with local suppliers and installers where at all possible, so local tradespeople and business owners are also invited to come along to find out more. Alternatively, an expression of interest form is available here: https://forms.office.com/r/0GMtFep4qj

Advisors can help with a range of issues including crisis support, billing issues and grants – so if you or someone you know is worried about staying warm and well at home, either pop along to the market on the 12th or call Keep Shropshire Warm on 0800 112 3743.

Claire Wooley, Marches Lead at the Marches Energy Agency adds “We’re really glad to be working on this project with Oswestry Town Council. This funding will help to get insulation into homes which would not qualify for existing schemes, thereby reducing the amount of energy local people need to keep their homes warm. Not only will this help to reduce bills and improve comfort for residents, it will also reduce the carbon footprint of our homes. Fuel poverty is an issue across Shropshire and Oswestry has a high percentage of households struggling to meet energy costs. With the recent price rises and the looming climate crisis, it’s more urgent than ever that we ensure our homes are as efficient as possible.”