5:41pm Tuesday 27th October 2009
Since it is now over a year since the residents meeting to discuss the impact of so-called “studentification” in Hanover and Elm Grove, I think it is about time we saw some action from our Conservative-led council (Argus, October 24).
Why isn’t Brighton and Hove City Council using the powers it already has under the Housing Act 2004 as other local authorities are doing? If they are not sufficient, the council has a duty to discuss the need for strengthened powers with Government.
As a result of the article in this weekend’s Argus, I spoke personally with Housing Minister, John Healey. He wants to hear from the council whether they are using the powers and if they are sufficient. If they are not, he will take a hard look at whether Government needs to strengthen the hand of local authorities in dealing with these problems. Caroline Flint, the then housing minister, made this offer last year after I met with her.
Successive Labour housing ministers have been open to working with Brighton and Hove City Council to give them the powers they need, so why hasn’t the council taken up the offer?
Their rather low-level approach such as putting leaflets through doors asking people to “please be quiet” is short term and low impact. Residents are looking for a tougher and more permanent solution and it is up to the council to deliver it.
Nancy Platts, Labour parliamentary candidate for Brighton Pavilion, Preston Road, Brighton
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