Statement from Shropshire Council on proposed placements at Dutton Close, Stoke Heath

Shropshire Council and Stoke on Tern Parish Council have been made aware of proposals by Enfield Council to place families to whom it owes a housing duty at Dutton Close, Stoke Heath, through private rented housing arrangements. The properties concerned are currently available to rent or buy on the open market. 

The council has written to Enfield Council to formally record its significant concerns about these proposals and to make clear that, in its view, Dutton Close is not a suitable location for these placements. 

The site is poorly connected, with limited access to transport, services and other essential support. It also has no community facilities nearby. This would make it extremely difficult for individuals and families placed there to settle, access the help they may need and integrate into the wider community. 

While the council recognises that it has no legal grounds to prevent Enfield Council placing households at this site through private rented accommodation, it has expressed its clear view that this is not the right location and not the right time. 

It is therefore it is strongly urging Enfield Council not to proceed with any use of Dutton Close for this purpose. Before considering moving any families to the area, Enfield Council must satisfy itself that all concerns have been fully addressed and that any proposed accommodation is suitable, sustainable and properly supported.