Lib Dems abandon sheltered housing scheme to squatters

Councillor John Kazantzis

Lambeth Council’s already discredited housing policies were dealt another blow after it was revealed that a former sheltered housing scheme on Streatham High St is now a squat. The decision to close Sinclair House was made by the Liberal Democrat / Tory Administration two years ago and despite vociferous opposition from local people and Labour Councillors, had become run-down and improperly secured.

Since its closure, not only have the Lib Dem led council failed to find an alternative use for the building, but they have ignored warnings from Labour Councillors about the inadequate security. On two separate occasions, Cllr John Kazantzis, a Streatham South Councillor and Labour’s housing spokesperson, personally raised his concerns about the security around Sinclair House.

The first occasion was on one of his regular estate walkabouts on 14.9.04 and then again at a meeting with the Executive Director for Housing on 11.10.04. Despite this no additional security was put in place and it became squatted in the week commencing 1.11.04.

Commenting, Councillor Kazantzis said:

“I am now urgently pressing the council to address the problem, firstly by removing the unauthorised occupants and secondly and most importantly, to find a suitable use for the building rather than letting it remain derelict.

For too long now this whole area, including Sinclair House, Hermitage Lane and the old William IV site, has remained neglected and in a disgraceful condition. It is time the council takes action and we will continue to insist that it does so, in full consultation with local residents.”

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