Lee Scott MP: Tories’ unofficial area committee ‘well-attended’
Residents attend the first unofficial area committee meeting in Broadmead Baptist Church Hall. - Credit: Archant
More than 70 people attended the Tories’ first unofficial area committee meeting last night, according to Lee Scott MP.
The meetings are a direct response to the Redbridge Labour Group axing the seven traditional area committees held across the borough earlier this year.
Cllr Jas Athwal, the council leader, introduced the new local forums to help cut the financial deficit faced by the council.
Mr Scott said: “I was very pleased with the attendance. I counted 74 but a few people arrived late.
“Local democracy has to be about listening to local people and taking these views into account.
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He also added: “Sadly the current council leadership have, by their high handed actions, shown that they will ignore any contrary opinions.”
All the Conservative ward councillors of Fullwell, Fairlop and Bridge were present – apart from Cllr John Fairley-Churchill who was absent due to sickness. Cllr Robin Turbefield chaired the panel.
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“There were a number of issues spoken about, including the Oakfield playing fields and developing the Wanstead and Woodford corridor,” added Mr Scott.
He added 80 per cent of the time residents were able to express their opinions.
Cllr Athwal has labelled Mr Scott’s initiative “petty politics” and dismissed the meetings as “counter-productive”.
