Councillor Despairs of Action on Horton Site

Councillor Elaine Britten (Lib Dem, Court) has asked the borough council for an explanation as to why Horton Chapel is still awaiting restoration, despite the council taking ownership many years ago.

"I've spent the past three years trying to get action, but am at a loss as to know what to do now" says Cllr Britten. "It's exactly two years ago that the council jubilantly issued a press release saying that the tender process was going to be reopened. Although we have had the promised public consultation, what real progress has been made? None. And what's the point of a public consultation which is going to be out of date by the time any action takes place?"

Cllr Britten knows that various local organisations are keen to tender again for the Chapel and wants action on the Horton Water Tower as well. "Livingstone Park is a beautiful development, utterly blighted by the appearance of these two buildings. The council should not have taken on responsibility for them if they weren't prepared to do something which would ensure they benefited the neighbourhood. Hundreds of local residents have to look at these buildings every single day." adds Cllr Britten

Court ward councillors think that a comprehensive recycling station could be sited near the Chapel and part of the green space considered for allotments or a kick-about area. "The council should be putting pressure on the new owners of the Water Tower to at least make it visually attractive, even if the current economic climate means it won't be turned into flats." says Cllr Britten

Tenders for Horton Chapel were declared void nearly three years ago after complaints about the tender process were made. Original tenderers Cheam Community Church are thought to be still interested in the site but the Islamic Society, the other bidder, has since found other premises. A public meeting was promised for September 2008 but has not happened. Council officers were known to be unavailable in the past to deal with subject because of "other priorities".

"I've taken my concerns and frustrations to the highest authority but have got nowhere. I feel I'm letting the people of Court Ward down because I just cannot do my job as their local councillor" says Cllr Britten.