OAPs do not belong in our town centre
Posh council blasts new homes bid
PLANNERS have vowed to tear up projects for homes for older residents because they do not bring “vitality” to town centres.
And despite the spending power of pensioners, their presence is said to “undermine the viability” and competitiveness of urban areas.
The move by Elmbridge Council officials to reject homes for 222 elderly people in Walton- on- Thames in Surrey’s “Stockbroker Belt” has sparked outrage.
Derelict
Now the Foreign Secretary and local MP Dominic Raab is being asked to step in after the council was accused of ageism. The proposed scheme, by Guild
Living in partnership with Legal & General, would transform a derelict Homebase site.
Phil Bayliss, chief executive of later living at Legal & General, told Mr Raab: “Our lawyers advise that the council’s proposed actions are discriminatory under the Equality Act 2010.” Professor Malcolm Johnson, of Bath University, and star of TV’s Old People’s Home For 4 Year Olds, said: “I am shocked, but not surprised.” Resident Jan Dyer, 76, said: “I’m appalled at these ageist and insulting comments. As for being ‘ detrimental’ and not bringing anything of value, this is both degrading and untrue.”
The planners said: “The application fails to support diversity in the town centre, it fails to add to the centre’s competitiveness and would undermine the vitality and viability of the town centre.”
Online, the council says: “There is no urgent need for the delivery of any more nursing care bed spaces in Elmbridge.” The plan will be considered by councillors tomorrow. The council has been contacted for comment.