Ashfield: Tenant plan could lead to ‘ghettos’

Plans to separate council tenants by age to curb incidents of anti-social behaviour have been labelled ‘bonkers’ and ‘divisive.’
NMAC11-0973-2

Jason ZadroznyNMAC11-0973-2

Jason Zadrozny
NMAC11-0973-2 Jason Zadrozny

Ashfield District Council are considering segregating young single people aged over 18 from those over the age of 60 in certain areas.

The proposals comes after complaints from some tenants of abuse from neighbours of a different generation.

“The scheme is absolutely bonkers and a wheeze to win headlines. It would create more problems than it solves,” said Coun Jason Zadrozny, who represents the Sutton North ward.

“There may have been some complaints about anti-social behaviour, but I know a lot more residents are up in arms about this.

“We should be trying to break down such social barriers, not put them up and to think most people do not get on is ridiculous.

“Younger people often look after the older generation, and where would that leave those people if such help was removed?

“We could end up with ghettos within the community, which is exactly the divisive situation we don’t want.”

But a council spokesman said: “There are no plans to start separating tenants by age as a matter of course.

“There are already some council properties which are age specific in terms of tenancy and designated to people who are over 60.

“Reports of anti social behaviour are dealt with on a case by case basis and, if appropriate, the council has the power to introduce local lettings plans which are implemented in consultation with partner organisations - the police, the fire service and Ashfield Homes Limited.

“This is the basis for the current review which will determine if greater flexibility for controlling tenancies is required.

“While it is accepted that conflicts in lifestyle can occur, the council strives to support and create sustainable communities where values are shared across all age groups and will continue to work to this aim.”