Assurances that work will start in March on upgrading vacant properties that have been boarded up in Lower Hutt has been given to me by Housing New Zealand.
I sought a meeting with Housing New Zealand officers to represent the views of residents and neighbours of the vacant houses who were deeply concerned.
One city street has 23 vacant houses and neighbours, who are also fearful of vandals, consider them an eyesore.
Housing New Zealand has lodged applications for building consents to carry out maintenance and upgrading of at least 13 buildings to get things under way.
They have also cut overgrown grass and removed rubbish and increased security. I am hoping this will soothe the anxiety expressed by neighbours
This is a positive response – it shows Housing New Zealand is listening to the affected neighbours in addressing these issues,” he says.
Housing New Zealand has undertaken to meet with myself and council officers on a regular basis to monitor progress on managing the maintenance and upgrades of the existing properties
Housing New Zealand has a large portfolio of residential properties and we will also work with them on a long term strategy for the future of affordable housing in the city as part of our urban growth strategy for Lower Hutt.
I have also informed the Minister of Housing, the Hon Phil Heatley, of our meeting and my intention to protect the interests of our residents.
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