Kingston Council Receives a 'Red Flag' Warning for Housing Needs

Kingston Council has received a Red Flag warning for meeting Housing needs, as part of their Comprehensive Area Assessment (CAA) produced by the Audit Commission.

Councillor Ian George, the Conservative Housing Spokesman, said: It is very disappointing that Kingston has received a red flag for notmeeting housing needs, although not surprising. At the last full Council meeting, the Lib Dem Leader gave his assurances that there would be no red flags for Housing.

The writing has been on the wall for some time as far as the current Administration& 146;s management of Housing is concerned. They have failed to address problems for over 7 years now and it shows. Not only have they failed to meet Decent Homes standards, but they have failed to provide enough affordable housing and temporary accommodation to meet the needs of local residents. Consultation with residents has also been woeful, with residents not being properly informed or consulted.

Their recent press release on the Housing red flag, highlights their thinking. The Lib Dems seem intent on working with the Audit Commission to get the flag removed rather than concentrating on improving the service that they provide.