Lib Dem Councillor Ross Laird, who has been campaigning over the past six months to improve conditions at Connaught House, Muswell Hill, has welcomed news that Haringey Council is now in dialogue with the Metropolitan Police and Housing 21, which manages the property.

He has also received assurances from the Metropolitan Police that they are seeking to extend the current contract for some months.

Cllr Laird commented:

“I welcome the Council’s response to my urgent demands and those of local residents. Until we know the likely outcome of the termination of the contract with the housing association, Housing 21, we need to be in a position whereby the Council can react swiftly to either rehouse residents or assist in finding a suitable housing association to run the building.

“The delayed termination of the contract which is currently being discussed by the Metropolitan Police would certainly help buy us all time, but still does not solve the issue. I look forward to further meetings on this issue.”