Gordon Banks ‘absolutely delighted’ at Millhouse Inquiry outcom

19 March 2008

Ochil & South Perthshire MP Gordon Banks has welcomed the decision made by Scottish Executive reporter Richard Hickman released this morning which ensures that residents at Millhouse Park in Crieff are free from the threat of eviction. Mr Banks and his staff worked extensively on a campaign with residents and spoke out at the public inquiry in February against Council action which placed residents firmly in the crossfire of a dispute between Perth and Kinross Council and Millhouse Park developer, Welch Homes.
Mr Banks said –
“I am delighted that common sense has prevailed. The months of worry and agony for the residents is now over and that brings a tremendous sense of relief. The residents, the legal team and members of my staff were all heavily involved in this fight and I am glad that the hard work has paid off. I pay tribute to Jacqueline Harris for her fine legal representation and also to the reporter for coming to the conclusion that he has.”
“The residents contacted my office this morning with the news and their relief was obvious. They can now go onto enjoy their retirement in Crieff without the threat of eviction hanging over them and the stress that comes with that.”
“It is sad that the situation was allowed to go on so long and disappointing that the Council decided to pursue an action which was aimed at victimising elderly residents. Perhaps the Council will now seriously reconsider its approach in the future when dealing with these sort of issues. Targetting innocent and elderly victims can never be the correct course of action. It is disappointing that other Perthshire politicians were not of the same opinion.”