Councillors Criticize Relocation of Vulnerable Families Amid Housing Pressures

Councillors have asserted that vulnerable families, when relocated to new areas without adequate support, are “being moved around like pieces on a chessboard.” These concerns stem from London’s local authorities relocating families hundreds of miles to County Durham, a practice attributed to housing shortages. Data from the Local Democracy Reporting Service indicates that over the past year, an average of two households per month were transferred from London to County Durham. Allegations also suggest that councils are utilizing properties without local awareness or informing the relevant local authorities. During a scrutiny meeting, Labour councillor Rob Crute, who represents Blackhall, stated: “We’ve got people being used as commodities and being moved around like pieces on a chessboard. It’s an absolute disgrace.” He further added: “We’re in the 21st century and we’re scraping around to find people clothes to wear.” Councillor Crute also questioned the necessity of such distant relocations, remarking: “Nobody can tell me there isn’t any available housing between London and County Durham that would be suitable for vulnerable people in genuine need. There are concerns about how they could get away with doing this.” Additionally, councillors addressed persistent problems concerning mixed-use properties and vacant residences. Between April and June, the local authority facilitated the relocation of 59 households into alternative housing and reactivated 52 long-term empty properties. However, Independent Councillor Joyce Charlton commented: “How many of our homeless have been forced out by unscrupulous private landlords? It’s just ridiculous. It’s happening all over the place.” Councillor Charlton, representing Tanfield, near Stanley, also noted that some residents were receiving no-fault eviction notices from their landlords. Concurrently, Independent Councillor Anne Reed from Crook highlighted that former retail premises were being considered for residential use. She remarked: “Yes, we need more properties, but is it right to change our retail areas into houses in multiple occupation? There are concerns there.” Durham County Council is currently investigating 165 properties due to a lack of proper licensing.