Council votes again to shut Markhouse Centre, sparking outrage among residents and families of disabled adults.
People are upset with the Waltham Forest Council’s decision to close the day center. The Markhouse Centre, open since the early 1980s, is said by the council to be in poor condition, requiring significant repairs.
Currently, 48 residents regularly attend the center, including fifteen autistic individuals and about a quarter with complex learning disabilities.
A local campaigner described the decision as “disgraceful,” while a council member called it a “dark day.” The council had previously voted to close the center in December, but that decision was halted after a conflict.
The council utilized a firm it partly owned, Norse Evolve, for a survey. This followed criticism regarding the initial conflict of interest and prompted two new surveys. Norse Evolve, 25% owned by Waltham Forest, estimated repairs would cost £1.2 million over the next 15 years, including repairs and other expenses.
Another survey, conducted by Hollis Global, estimated £500,000 would maintain the building for ten years. The council calculated an additional £763,000 for five more years, excluding a new heating system, which would cost between £195,000 and £215,000.
Spectrum Property Services estimated £984,000, which included heating upgrades, but excluded consulting costs. Norse put those consulting costs at £123,000. According to a council spokesperson, experts hold different views.
A councillor cited three reasons for the closure: a preference for “people-based services,” the need to save money, and the poor condition of the building. She also noted that the repair estimates are only £100,000 apart.
She acknowledged the decision would be difficult for people, emphasizing the significant financial challenges the council faces. Rising service demands and costs, coupled with the Markhouse Centre’s high investment needs, necessitate the closure.
Council tax will increase by 4.99% next month, and the town hall aims to cut £23 million. Previous cuts include tax support for low-income residents and funding for a befriending service.
O’Rourke stated this demonstrates a lack of democracy and called the closure a betrayal, ignoring the needs of vulnerable people. He vowed to challenge the decision and seek expert advice on potential legal action.
Another councillor urged against closing the center, arguing that all options were not explored. While acknowledging the tough choices, she believes this particular choice is unnecessary.
Following a 15-minute discussion, the cabinet voted to close the center, leaving relatives of service users upset and accusing the council of causing suffering.
One councillor stated the evidence was flawed and families are in a state of uncertainty. Other relatives expressed anger and concern about the potential grief experienced by everyone involved.
As of now, no closure date has been announced.