Kim Naish is correct when he says the Conservatives agreed with the sheltered housing plans, including the closure of Joyce Brooks House (Gazette, November 1).

What he does not say, however, is that it has been admitted a mistake was made by the administration in that residents were not aware their home was to close until they read the local paper.

They were not involved in any way in the process.

In accepting the plan, the Conservatives thought the residents had been kept fully informed of the developments, since that is what they were told.

Had they known this was not true, I understand they would not have given their consent.

This is far too important an issue to be decided by council committee and a presentation to councillors.

We all know presentations can be slanted to tell a story in a particular way.

In the light of the admitted mistake and the incorrect information given to the Conservatives, it is vital the closure notice be withdrawn and the matter put to the full council for approval or otherwise.

This will give residents, their relatives and interested parties the chance to put forward their case and for the voters of Colchester to know which councillors are for and against moving elderly people from their homes against their will.

The statistics show we are living longer. Surely we need more sheltered housing, not less.

Joyce Brooks House is too valuable a property for the people of Colchester to lose and closure is not an option.

Norman Bailey
Cambridge Road
Colchester

...A lot has been said about the closure of Joyce Brooks House and, the distress caused to the residents.

Within the council constitution, the decision has been made and we must go forward.

To alleviate residents’ distress, let us now unite and support them through these difficult, emotional times.

On that basis, I and my fellow Conservative councillors will campaign for a fair deal for Joyce Brooks, Abbeygate House and all our tenants.

Prior to the decision, as the shadow councillor for housing, I attended a one-to- one meeting with housing officers where my questions were answered, I read the consultation documents and I made recommendations to the Conservative Group, based on the information available at the time.

Unfortunately, I, and many others, understood the tenants had been fully consulted and talks were ongoing, and I believed an understanding had been reached. We now know this was not the case.

During the past few days, I have met with housing officers, who explained the position and assured me talks are taking place with the residents.

At any age, a home is special, and a move is stressful.

I offer my support to the residents of both Joyce Brooks and Abbeygate Houses, and assure you I will keep in contact with housing officers working for a fair deal for all our tenants.

Cllr Sonia Lewis
Acland Avenue
Lexden
Colchester