MP slams housing company's extra gritting charge

Mark Oaten has criticised Hanover Housing for their refusal to clear snow and grit the paths of their Hanover Lodge premises in Winchester, unless residents paid for it.

Elderly residents at the retirement home, concerned about their safety on icy pathways, enquired with Hanover whether they would be clearing the snow and gritting the area to enable safe movement.

Residents were shocked and angry to learn that Hanover would only provide grit if the residents agreed to hold a meeting and approve an increased service charge to pay for the grit at £136 per bag and £128 for a grit bin.

After being contacted about the issue directly by Mark, Hanover have confirmed that they would only conduct clearing and gritting work if the residents paid more for their service charge. This is despite a strong feeling amongst the residents that their existing charges are perfectly able to cover it.

Mark Oaten commented:

“Elderly people are particularly vulnerable to falls and breaking bones and many will find it difficult themselves to clear snow. This makes them doubly vulnerable and the decision by Hanover to refuse to help them even more indefensible.