'They don't know what they've done' - RBH office closure

Councillor Jean Ashworth

Councillor Jean Ashworth spoken out against the decision to close down local Rochdale Borough Housing (RBH) offices.

Speaking at the meeting of the full council last night (Wednesday 22 July), Councillor Ashworth said the latest office to close, Hare Hill House, Littleborough, is a ‘sad move’.

This office follows the closure of the Smallbridge and Belfield offices.

Councillor Ashworth said: “They don’t know what they’ve done and how.”

The new system put in place of the offices is officers are required to walk around the local area, and those with any housing issues are to approach the officers.

Firstly, there is the issue of health and safety of the officers who will be on the streets throughout the year. This exposes the officers to harsh weather conditions, but also poses a great safety risk.

The officers will be walking the street with specific area assigned to them. The chances are that they will have electronic equipment with them, which will be a potential prospect for thieves.

The councillor’s concerns are not only regarding the health and safety aspect of the officers but also of the public as she believes “members of the public will not contact officers on the street”, as they may not feel comfortable disclosing confidential or personal information in such an environment.

While there is a RBH office in Newbold, it is not open to the public. There is a phone service for customers.