There was a time when we were promised "joined up government". Policies in one area contrasted with policies in another area organised so those silly little conflicts apparent in bureaucracies were smoothed over to the advantage of citizens.
Its not just national government that cant join up government. Consider the position of Gateshead Council. A whole street of boarded up housing and proposals to demolish 440 homes in central Gateshead instead of refurbishing and renting. Some 440 families having to find new homes. Meanwhile over 600 people are registered as homeless in Gateshead and there are no homes for rent at the largest social landlord the Gateshead Housing Company which manages all Gateshead Council's housing stock.
Local residents were told that demolition was necessary because of an oversupply of housing and too few people. They were told that homes were empty.
The housing crisis for ordinary people in Gateshead is only matched by inept policy to deal with it. Instead of making the most of affordable housing the Council is using demolition to promote market price rises and an opportunity for millionaire property developers meanwhile 600+ people who need homes are being denied affordable places to live.
Gateshead Council - making a mockery of joined up government.
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