COUNCIL housing tenants in Leigh, Atherton and Tyldesley could face a three per cent rents rise from next year.

The increase, costing Wigan Council tenants an extra £2.35 per week, would come into effect next April if councillors agree.

Deputy chief executive Paul McKevitt said the rent increase is the only way of generating more revenue to invest in the council’s housing stock.

The borough currently charges the lowest rent of any north west council at an average of £74.67 per week, compared to £90.50 across England.

Around 76 per cent of the borough's tenants receive housing benefit or universal credit with approximately 60 per cent of rent being fully funded by these benefits.

Every single per cent rise in rent generates around £800,000 of income for the council.

Garage rents are also set to rise by three per cent to an average of £6.77 per week.

Labour councillor Susan Gambles, housing cabinet member, said the authority will support affected residents.

Her colleague Dane Anderton told a scrutiny committee that people renting privately are facing cost increases of £150 a month.

Tory group leader Cllr Michael Winstanley is ‘concerned’ about the impact of the increase, particularly on those who do not receive benefits.

Independent Alliance leader Stuart Gerrard thinks the rent increase is too much and added: "This is going to affect the most vulnerable in our communities who are struggling with the rise in fuel and food prices."

He called for a 12-month rents freeze. The issue will got a vote at a full council meeting on Wednesday.