A mass gathering of Park Home residents was organised in Westminster as the group called for an end to 10% sales fees and clarity over access to the £400 energy rebate.
The demonstrators delivered a clear message demanding reform of this massively scandal-hit sector of retirement housing market. Around 80 park home owners converged on 10 Downing Street yesterday to deliver this blunt message.
Initially, the demonstration – which was delayed by the Queen’s death – was to address the issue of pitch fees rising every year with Retail Price Inflation (RPI) instead of the less onerous Consumer Price Index (CPI).
But a private members bill by Sir Christopher Chope last week was taken up by government and hastened through the Commons with likely royal assent early in the New Year, this grievance is likely sorted out.
So the focus of the demo then switched to the 10% sale fees as well as the winter fuel subsidies.
Leading the demonstration was Sonia McColl OBE, the founder of the Park Homes Owners Justice Campaign, the group delivered a petition to Number 10, headed by Sir Peter Bottomley, Father of the House and long term patron of LKP, who has championed their rights with the same dedication that he has done leaseholders’.
Later a meeting in the Palace of Westminster was held chaired by Sir Peter Bottomley and attended by an impressive number of MPs, including Steve Brine, the Member of Parliament for Winchester and Chandler’s Ford which contains a high number of Park Homes.
Local MP, Steve Brine, addressed the group in Parliament and focused his attention on the gap surrounding winter fuel subsides, which has left many of his constituents wondering when they will receive the help already being delivered to other residents.
He says; “I have been in regular contact directly with Ministers seeking clarity on when park home owners can expect their energy support. They were promised parity and it hasn’t so far materialised.”
Just as the demonstration took place Graham Stuart MP, the Minister of State for Energy and Climate, unveiled the Energy Bills Support Scheme Alternative Funding.
This new scheme will proved much-needed help for those households who do not have a domestic energy supply and have not received support through the main Energy Bills Support Scheme.
This includes residents of park homes and the Government will publish further detail about eligibility early in the new year.
Pictured; Steve Brine MP on his feet in the Palace of Westminster speaking at the meeting.
