Southwark residents have their say

People living in the south London borough of Southwark have had the opportunity to get their voices heard on sustainability issues affecting the whole local population.

Thanks to the government's Sustainable Communities Act initiative - which saw Southwark Council work alongside residents - eight proposals have been drawn up and sent to the government.

It shows that those living in property to rent in Southwark, as well as people in other kinds of residences in the area, are able to play an active part in their community.

Some of the plans devised by the committee were property-related such as the idea that penalties should be handed out for unlawful use of a property, giving the council the right to impose civil penalties on freeholders to cover the costs of planning enforcement.

The group also raised the topic of traffic calming, saying that it should be at the local authority's discretion to enforce 20 mph speed zones.

Nick Stanton, Southwark Council leader, said: "At a time when there is a lot of cynicism about politics, it's great that so many residents have submitted ideas on action which government can take to help us improve our local communities."

People living in property to rent in Southwark also have the chance to win regular cash prizes just by recycling their rubbish. Residents who recycle are selected at random each month and rewarded with various financial sums.

Written by Andy Britten

Published 13th July, 2009

© 2009 Estates IT Limited