THE LEADER OF the Harlow Alliance Party has urged the council to consult more residents on the sale of garages across town.

Nicholas Taylor to Councillor Dan Swords (Leader of the Council):

I note that the issue of how residents and garage tenants were advised of the council’s intention to sell garages was raised at the most recent Cabinet meeting.

I also note that as a result of comments made by residents, such as being given just nine days in which to respond to the letter, the letter was informing rather than consulting, a lack of information about how changes would affect those occupying nearby garages and that the letter said the report would only be available for public viewing after the Cabinet meeting would take place, you gave assurances that changes would be made to the way that the council communicated with residents.

Despite these assurances, I am not aware that any steps have been taken to provide further information in respect of the sites which Cabinet agreed to sell, or indeed more time to make comments.

Will the council go back to residents living near the sites to be sold in order to provide more information and address any new concerns? What specific changes have been made for the future when other blocks may be sold?

Reply from Councillor Dan Swords (Leader of the Council):

As advised at Cabinet, it was agreed that a review of correspondence to those residents affected by a proposed sale of council garages would be undertaken which is currently underway.

I will write to Mr Taylor following the conclusion of that review.

At present the council have not identified any further schemes for disposal.