Crucible Close dilemma

Residents of Crucible Close. Millhaven Close and Capstan Close have developed a strong Neighbourhood Watch Unit and have now started to lead within the Chadwell Heath ACtion Group. This is good for residents in their area and I woudl advise residents from other areas to follow their example to improve localised communities.

Three issues have been raised at the last CHAG meeting from the participants from these areas. Firstly the drain covers in the picture are light weight, flimsy and are prone to vandalism from local youths. The drains below which are believed to be disused contain a 4ft cavity. Residents are fearful that this poses a real health and safety threat.

A fence has been broken down by recent winds, however no owner is claiming ownership of the fence or the land, which is believed to be owned by the council. The council has not been trimming bushes and vegetation in the area or maintaining the road beliveing the are private. I now have a letter provided by the members of CHAG that suggests that the property is owned by the council - this letter is endorsed by a solicitor from an established law society approved solicitor. I am challenging our council to provide us with a definitive response.

There is also fencing broken to the rear of this unclaimed territory that has been subject to vandalism by local youths. They have also ripped open the meshing and it seems as if it is youths that use this are for rather antisocial behaviour including the destruction of property. I have informed the Police and the ASBO Team.

Circle Anglia Housing Association have been contacted on several occasions regarding a dilapidated porch with broken glass which I cut my hand on back in March this year. The dangerous state of the porch is still evidently similar if not more jagged when viewed through this picture evidence. I have reported the concern to health and safety and to Circle Anglia again.