‘KIDS CRYING’: ‘Grinch’ housing provider says NO to Christmas trampoline in communal garden for children living in Northampton flats
The council’s housing provider has been called “The Grinch” after saying a Christmas trampoline is not allowed in the communal garden for children living at flats in Northampton.
Councillor Sally Keeble, WNC Labour Group Leader and councillor for Dallington Spencer, has called on West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) and its council-housing provider Northampton Partnership Homes (NPH) to reconsider plans to remove a children’s trampoline from the communal garden at a block of flats in Kings Heath.
The trampoline was provided by parents for their children after a paddling pool and other toys were previously deemed unsafe over the summer. Although the pool has been put away for winter and a new, “safer” trampoline purchased, residents have been told the trampoline must still be dismantled on December 17, according to Cllr Keeble.
Some of the parents raised their concerns with Cllr Keeble when she visited the flats to deliver Christmas cards over the weekend.
Cllr Keeble said: “This is so unfair on the families that have made such an effort to provide some fun activities for their children. It’s exactly the kind of community spirit the council should encourage.
“Whether it’s NPH, or WNC – they shouldn’t be acting like the Grinch that stole Christmas. Some of the children were literally in tears when I visited.”
The flats are currently managed by NPH on behalf of West Northamptonshire Council, which is taking the housing service back in house.
An NPH spokeswoman said: “We understand the value of safe spaces for children to play and we appreciate the importance of community life. However, we also have a responsibility to maintain communal areas to the required standard and ensure the safety of everyone who has access to the shared spaces. Our neighbourhood management policy, developed with residents, requires communal gardens and external areas to remain clear of obstacles. This includes play equipment such as trampolines, swings and temporary pools.
“Large items not only prevent our grounds maintenance contractor (which is funded through residents’ service charges) from carrying out essential work, but they also pose significant safety risks. Where removal is necessary, we will always provide written notice at least five days in advance. We appreciate residents’ understanding and cooperation as we work to keep communal areas safe, accessible and well-maintained for everyone.”