Council 'in denial about squatter blight'

Campaigners in an area blighted by eastern European squatters have accused town hall leaders of being "in denial" about the problem.

Residents in Ilford, where about 30 homes have been occupied in the past year, say Lib-Dem and Tory-run Redbridge council is "dismissive" of their concerns.

In a report responding to a 2,000 signature petition demanding action, the council said many of their suggestions to tackle the problem were "disproportionate" because of the "small number" of properties affected. Nearly all the residents' recommendations were rejected.

Ideas included setting up an advisory group and making squatting a regular council agenda item. Campaigner Susan Dixon said: "I feel deeply let down and saddened." Robin Turbefield, cabinet member for housing, said: "We are doing everything possible within our powers to stamp this out."