COUNCIL OFFICER ACCUSED OF CENTRAL HILL “SCAREMONGERING”
Allegations of scaremongering by a council officer were made at the meeting by Central Hill tenants and residents association chair Karen Bennett.
“At least two residents were called on by a council officer who told them that not only was the estate built to last 40 years it was in imminent danger of collapsing. “Which begs the question: Why did Lambeth council sell 125 year leases?”
KEY GUARANTEES
Cressingham Gardens resident Gerlinde Gniewosz told cabinet members: “One family on Cressingham Gardens has already been forced out by the regeneration project.
“They are now living in a caravan after being told by council staff that: ‘we can’t help you until the bailiffs go in’. “It’s disgraceful.
“You’re creating more uncertainty “You need to put more guarantees in for all residents – not just the ones you are obliged to.
“The improved key guarantees* are for Lambeth – not for residents.”
She listed the various ‘guarantees’ some of which were now just mechanisms and one guarantee – number seven – was off the table. “I’d like to know where the improvements are” (applause.)
Another Cressingham resident, Andrew Plant, said people could either choose to lose their tenancy rights or move away from your estates. – which he branded ‘coercion’. “Tenants have made clear these options are unwelcome.”
Claims that key guarantees helped reduce uncertainty and stress experience was wishful thinking, he added.
NEWS FROM CRYSTAL PALACE 