• THE eye-watering cost to Camden residents of the Chalcots disaster, which seems to be growing by the week, is the tip of the iceberg of Labour’s housing mismanagement and lack of accountability across the borough, (Chalcots refurb is a disaster, but who signed it off? Comment, March 15).

Time and again the council’s grandiose schemes have failed to deliver the promised benefits for tenants and residents, resulting in long delays, empty properties, only 17 per cent of new homes being for council rent, and families left in buildings where there are serious safety issues.

Labour makes it more difficult for itself by failing to consult with and listen to tenants, residents, and others who have legitimate concerns and good ideas.

Camden’s lone Green councillor, Sian Berry, has been forced to submit Freedom of Information requests just to obtain essential data on Chalcots, the true numbers of new council homes being provided in major estate redevelopments, and other critical housing issues.

With a stronger Green presence on the council, we could be ensuring a vote for residents in all regeneration schemes.

Greens would also commit to at least 65 per cent affordable homes in any new council developments (50 per cent at council rents), no joint ventures or PFI schemes (which were a major contributor to the botched refurbishment at Chalcots) and bring repairs and major works in-house.

The May 3 election is a chance for people to vote Green to give the council balance and accountability.

DEE SEARLE
Co-Chair, Camden Green Party