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Besieged leaseholders told to pay up for a security gate
LEASEHOLDERS on a private Archway estate have been told they will have to pay for a security gate to protect them from trouble-makers outside.
For more than five years the residents at Gresham Place off Holloway Road have campaigned for a gate.
Street drinkers and gangs congregate in the yard of the flats and a battered sofa was recently dumped there.
In 2005 the Landmark Housing Association (since renamed Family Homes Mosaic) offered to provide a gate free of charge, but said it would first need to consult with the owners of the site over where it would be situated.
Leaseholder Gerry Cummins said: “We’ve had to put up with years of anti-social behaviour right outside our doors. “There have been several burglaries and attempted break-ins. Now they have finally agreed to put in the gates but we leaseholders will have to pay. It’s very unfair. The housing association have a duty of care to provide those gates.”
Labour councillor Janet Burgess said: “I’m pleased these gates are now being installed. But I don’t see why the residents should now have to pay.”
A spokeswoman for Family Mosaic said she was aware of the need for more security and “apologised” for the length of time it has taken to resolve the issue.
She added: “We are in the process of getting quotes for the installation of a gate and a new intercom system which will be recharged to tenants and leaseholders which is standard practice. “However, the cost will be added to service charges over a number of years which is also standard practice. Family Mosaic will continue to consult with residents before going ahead with the works.” |
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