Rainham MP tours estate to ease residents’ concerns about regeneration work

Dagenham and Rainham’s MP joined residents to inspect an estate which is undergoing regeneration.

Jon Cruddas toured the Orchard Village in Rainham, formerly known as the Mardyke Estate, on Friday last week following complaints by about disruption caused by the work.

Some residents had been anxious about water supplies being cut off during the redevelopment.

Mr Cruddas also met representatives from contractors Willmot Dixon who are carrying out the work, and Old Ford housing association.

He said: “I felt the meeting was very useful, with representatives from Willmott Dixon and Havering Council’s highways department I think it helped answer a lot of the local residents’ questions.

“It also helped assure people that steps are being taken to improve the local area.”

The problems caused during the renovation were brought to the attention of Mr Cruddas at residents meetings.

Since then he has been liasing with the residents regularly letting them know that something is being done.

Cheryl Coppell, chief executive of Havering Council, said: “I am pleased that the problems at the site have been resolved and that residents now feel happier.

“I’m really happy with how the work is progressing but with a development this large problems often occur and I’d like to thank residents for their patience.

She added: “I look forward to meeting with Jon Cruddas MP to discuss the work at the site and how best to minimise any disruption.”

The two will meet later this month.