Wendling in Gospel Oak

• I WAS disappointed to see the article following Marcus Boyland’s contribution at Camden Council’s Housing Scrutiny Committee meeting, (‘Cardboard’ council estates only designed to last 15 years, claims Labour’s party whip, March 3).

I was around in the 1960s when the houses in Haverstock ward, which would have had a preservation order on them today, were knocked down. I was told they were damp and overcrowded.

I was around when West Kentish Town estate was built to replace them. I was told the estate was a short-term solution with a limited life.

I am one of the Haverstock councillors and know that most residents living on the West Kentish Town Estate (WKT) consider their homes are poorly designed, cramped, damp and overcrowded – so much so that many have severe health related conditions.

Indeed, they are so concerned that 84.5 per cent of eligible WKT residents took part in a ballot about the future of their homes. And 93 per cent of those who voted, voted for their homes to be demolished and rebuilt to modern standards and design.

I am not surprised that some neighbours are against the development of WKT estate. Some live directly opposite the estate. Unequivocally they will be affected by the demolition and rebuild.

It is understandable why they might not look forward to that. But most live in comfortable and warm homes. They are not made ill by damp and mould. They do not live in overcrowded conditions.

We must ensure that the voices of our residents with severe housing needs living in WKT are listened to and acted upon.

We must ensure that WKT estate is knocked down and rebuilt to the best standards possible, and as quickly as possible.

This is the message that residents from West Kentish Town estate tell me almost unanimously. We must ensure their voices are heard too in the CNJ.

ALISON KELLY
Labour Councillor
Haverstock Ward