SSH Editorial on Public Housing Maintenance

Last month, Greens MP Sylvia Hale paid a visit to the Marton Building in Waterloo. A letter was subsequently sent to the Housing Minister, David Borger, detailing a number of serious problems, including: a broken door to a control room containing electrical connections for a disused fountain; a disused watering system for gardens, with reusable components discarded; a section of fencing left lying where it had fallen; lights at the front entrance permanently on; and five lights in Cope Street not working at all. The SSH notes that some improvements have been made recently, in particular with respect to cleaning, although unreliable lifts (in this and other public housing blocks in the area) remain a real concern.

The Housing Minister promises a “new era” for public housing. Tenants can only hope so.

Source: South Sydney Herald May 2009 www.southsydneyherald.com.au