Friday, February 21, 2014

Claymore updates

Claymore has been in the news a couple of times in the last week or so.

An artists impression of the first two stages of a Claymore renewal project. Impression:
An artists impression of the first two stages of a Claymore renewal project. Impression: UrbanGrowth NSW

First there was this report talking about knocking down buildings in 'a bid to lure new residents'. Whilst there will be new privately sold homes, there's no mention on whether there will be any retention or even increase in public housing. The residents interviewed, and even Ms Goward, all mention the local pride and the community. Unfortunately, which can't be removed from the housing tenants who live there! It would be a shame to throw out the baby with the bathwater. We also wonder what liaison has been undertaken with the people of Claymore who have had so many changes, plans and dead ends over last number of years.

Then the Daily Telegraph published this story discussing the renewal. The story prompted a comment from local Macarthur public housing tenant, Jen Rignold.  "I am an active tenant volunteer who derives her pride from the people in our community.  Bricks and mortar are important but are not the only consideration.  How people are treated and the relationships we continue to build with each other have a far greater impact on pride.  Ask tenants what is needed and we will work with you"

Well said, Jen!