Tory Greed Threatens Elderly Residents Of Kingsbury House

2.07.43pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 26th Apr 2004

Susan Kramer, Liberal Democrat Prospective Parliamentary candidate, deplored attempts by Richmond's Tory Council to overrule safeguards that have preserved the land behind Kingsbury House for affordable housing for the elderly. By permitting general housing, the Council can sell the land for more money.

Susan Kramer said "The elderly residents of Kingsbury House have always lived in the secure knowledge that any development of the green space behind their home would be for similar elderly residents not noisy young couples and families. The Tory Council is now attempting to change all that, even overruling its Inspector, to permit a pricier, higher-rise development of larger flats with parking not just for residents but significant numbers of visitors."

This housing is clearly aimed at a wealthier, yuppie market. Well-to-do younger residents have quite a few choices in the borough but this has been one of the rare places where our older residents have been assured of peace and quiet."

"Richmond needs to be a place where everyone belongs, including elderly people. The Richmond Tories need to stop this process now and put people ahead of income from land sales."

Notes:

The Inspectors report on the UDP stated that the land behind Kingsbury House should be affordable low-rise housing for the elderly. The Council are threatening to override these recommendations at a council meeting this Tuesday - please refer to Item 17, Appendix A - A-27 of the agenda.

For more info please contact Susan Kramer on 07770 941006