Haringey Council lets down Highgate

Highgate, in North London, has a dilemma faced by many communities around the country. It is split down the middle by major organisational units, London Borough boundaries in its case. One side of the main shopping/eating street is in Haringey, the other side is in Camden and Islington is just down the hill.

That is why the new powers introduced by the Coalition Government to create cross-border Neighbourhood Forums should be really good news, making it easier for residents and local businesses to get the sort of cooperation they have every right to expect but often don’t get.

Alas, Haringey Council is turning up its nose at the opportunity as this news release from Haringey Lib Dems points out:

Cllr Rachel Allison (Highgate) comments:

“It is unacceptable for Haringey Council to simply wash their hands of any responsibility to help local residents set up a new Neighbourhood Forum. They need to support not stifle grassroots enthusiasm to make our area better.

“Too often Highgate suffers from uncoordinated action from Camden and Haringey Councils. The new Neighbourhood Forum could finally help to get the joined-up approach Highgate’s residents deserve.

“Haringey needs to get its finger out. At the moment Camden Council is putting their Haringey counterpart to shame.”