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How to apply for Suffolk's new interest-free home improvement loans

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Ipswich's only independent news website

We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Suffolk residents looking to cut their energy bills can now access interest-free loans for home improvements. Here's everything you need to know about eligibility, how to apply and what the money can be used for.

The big picture: Suffolk County Council has launched a £3 million scheme offering homeowners interest-free loans between £2,000 and £15,000 for energy efficiency upgrades. The loans can be repaid over up to seven years.

Why it matters: With energy costs remaining high, these improvements could help residents:

  • Save money on energy bills

  • Make homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer

  • Reduce carbon emissions

  • Improve property value

A male roofer installing solar panels on a house
Suffolk residents looking to cut their energy bills can now access interest-free loans for home improvements

How it works: The loans can be used for various home improvements, including:

  • Insulation

  • Solar panels

  • Batteries

  • New glazing

  • Heat pumps

The application process:

  1. Visit the Lendology website to apply

  2. Complete the online application form

  3. Pay a £20 fee if your loan is approved (this covers Land Registry costs)

Worth noting: The £20 fee means the loan has a representative 0.2% APR, despite being interest-free. A Title Restriction will be placed on your property, meaning you'll need permission to sell unless the loan is fully repaid.

What they're saying: Councillor Philip Faircloth-Mutton, Cabinet Member for Environment, Communities and Equality, said:

"This loan scheme will help hundreds of Suffolk residents to make their homes more energy efficient. It will put money back in their pockets, by saving on their energy bills."

He added: "We all have a responsibility to ensure homes can cope with the changes in climate, keeping people cooler in summer and warmer in winter, and ultimately reducing our carbon emissions."

What's next: Two free webinars are being held for residents to learn more:

  • Monday 11 November, 14:00-14:30

  • Wednesday 13 November, 17:30-18:00

The bottom line: The scheme is part of Suffolk's Climate Emergency Plan and aims to help hundreds of residents make their homes more energy efficient. When loans are repaid, the money becomes available to other homeowners, creating a sustainable funding cycle.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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