Haringey Council is going to charge council leaseholders up to £1,000 for the upgrade to digital aerials.

My Liberal Democrat council colleagues and I have been fighting hard to get this decision over turned. We support an upgrade of TVs aerials ready for the digital switchover, but Lib Dem-run Islington managed to do this for a fraction of the cost – only £75.

In the middle of the recession the last thing people need is this huge bill as people struggle to make ends meet. Leaseholders should have the opportunity to 'opt out' of this scheme if they do not want it.

Not only will this cost leaseholders, but the taxpayer will pick up the £8million+ tab for upgrading the rest of the council housing stock.

This is money that can be spent elsewhere. Week in, week out in my regularly surgery I meet local residents whose homes are in desperate need of repair and refurbishment. The council needs to get its priorities right.

If you would like add your voice to the campaign against the huge charges please complete the petition below.

Labour-run Haringey Council has the power to order Homes for Haringey, the organisation that manages the Borough’s housing, to stop this project.

With your help I hope we can make them finally see sense. I will of course keep you updated on this campaign.

Best wishes


Lynne Featherstone MP