The so-called Independent candidate in St Andrew’s, Mr Hunt, had a letter published in the Gazette repeating the myths about local sheltered housing and, particularly, his own personal situation.

What many Greenstead residents are asking me is when is he going to take an interest in our local issues?

I suspect that he is being used as a front by the far left and others with a grudge against the Labour Party to pursue their own political interests.

And they aren’t interested or even aware of our concerns unlike the Labour candidate, councillor Tina Dopson, who has represented St Andrew’s with distinction for the past eight years, was a long-term resident and went to school at St Andrew’s and Sir Charles Lucas. She is also active at a local church.

For the record, Tina, councillor Julie Young and I support continued investment in the council’s sheltered housing schemes, including Enoch House in Hawthorn Avenue, and will always demand improved accommodation for older people.

We are delighted that Gurkha military veterans will be housed at Abbeygate House and the not-for-profit organisation taking over it will make the necessary adaptations to bring it up to standard.

I am disappointed the remaining residents of Joyce Brooks House, including Mr Hunt, chose to criticise Greenstead when I met with them a few months ago and made it clear they wouldn’t want to move there.

All I will say is that the Labour councillors for St Andrew’s ward are very proud of the area we represent and we always act in the best interests of our constituents.

Tim Young
Portfolio holder for Housing and Community Safety and Labour Group Leader
Colchester Council
Mascot Square
Colchester