URL: https://councillors.knowsley.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=7759

Decision Maker: Executive Director Regeneration and Economic Development (Dale Milburn)

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: The purpose of this report is to seek approval for a change in the responsibility for utility charge payments for dispersed accommodation from the Council to customers. As at 7 October 2025, 62 properties have their energy supplied by Utilita via smart meters but we have been advised by Utilita that the product is being withdrawn and will no longer be available to us. In light of this, we need to change the way we manage utilities in our dispersed accommodation.  

Content: The purpose of this report is to seek approval for a change in the responsibility for utility charge payments for dispersed accommodation from the Council to customers. As at 7 October 2025, 62 properties have their energy supplied by Utilita via smart meters but we have been advised by Utilita that the product is being withdrawn and will no longer be available to us. In light of this, we need to change the way we manage utilities in our dispersed accommodation.   That the Executive Director (Regeneration and Economic Development) in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development hereby approves the change responsibility from Knowsley Council to residents of dispersed temporary accommodation for household utility accounts (water, gas and electric). The option to reintroduce a fixed rate weekly service charge covering gas, electricity and water was considered but rejected. This option is unlikely to result in the Council collecting the full amount of service charges given historical collection rates figures and the fluctuating cost of energy would make setting a charge which covers usage exceptionally difficult. This option presents a significant risk to the Council in terms of liability to subsidise energy costs whilst potentially not collecting all service charges due.  

Date of Decision: October 22, 2025