Housing questions

Sir, – I was one of more than 100 people who gathered on Sunday to voice concerns about the proposed demolition of Inglis Court – a sheltered housing complex of 25 homes at the heart of Edzell.

It seems that our locallyelected councillors have absolutely no influence and no authority.

Moreover, voices of concern are silenced and Angus Council seems to be operating more like a dictatorship than a democracy.

I invite representatives from Angus Council to meet the Edzell community and provide a public response to the following questions of concern.

Where is the value in replacing 25 perfectly suitable sheltered properties with just 20 affordable homes at a cost of more than £4 million?

Why has the provost of Angus Council closed down all debate on this matter by disallowing a motion raised to the full council?

Why does Angus Council repeatedly turn its back on this issue by ignoring appeals and dismissing survey results in favour of retaining Inglis Court?

This is just a small sample of a raft of outstanding questions.

However, what disturbs me most is the fact that our elected representatives appear powerless, even being removed from committees if they are likely to rock the boat.

Inglis Court at Edzell was once a vital facility offering safe and comfortable accommodation within a supportive and caring community. The service it provided was second to none and there was even a waiting list to get in. Today, Inglis Court stands empty and neglected – a testament to Angus Council’s gross mismanagement.

David Turner.

Edzell,

Angus.