Maldon Council Urged to Reduce Housing Waiting List Numbers

An opposition councillor thinks the council must improve and help more people on the housing list. Maldon District Council announced its budget this week, and while council tax will increase, housing list concerns remain. The councillor feels this is a letdown.

Band D council tax will be £232.01, showing an annual increase of £6.74, about 2.99 percent more than last year. Currently, over 60 people need emergency housing.

Adrian Fluker, an Independent councillor, spoke at the council meeting. He said he feels disappointed that no one addressed the housing list size and sees others agreeing with him on this issue.

Fluker thinks about the emergency housing during meetings, knowing over sixty people need it tonight. He wants the council to work harder, hoping the next 12 months will show progress on affordable housing, a key part of the issue.

Richard Siddall, who leads the council group, said they made a good financial plan that helps the council prioritize. The council’s money situation looks good, and a new leisure contract will bring in more revenue.

Siddall mentioned other improvements, including savings and the use of new technology, which improved their finances even more. He appreciates the hard work of council staff and believes the budget is strong and sustainable, enabling the council to serve residents better.