Danny Iles inside the corridor of his 1960s ten-storey block of flats in Park North, Swindon. For the last two years, he’s fought the ongoing effects of a recurring water leak. What began as a leak in his bathroom has since escalated to the flooding of his hallway and kitchen. This has caused a great hardship in his housing situation. Iles originally kept his house with his brother for 15 years. Repeated problems finally forced his brother to leave.
After three visits from Swindon Borough Council, Iles said the issue was still not fixed. Frustrated by the inaction, he tattooed his anger at the council’s failure to act on his arm.
“The council are not doing what they should be doing.” – Danny Iles
Iles was active in the council’s “Let’s Talk Housing” events. These events gave Attawapiskat residents a platform to make their voices heard on social housing needs within the community. At the meetings, he raised the issue of the water seepage. He took the time to voice his concerns over drug-related gang activity taking place in the community.
“I want them [the council] to get rid of the people doing the drug dealing, I want them thrown out, they’re breaking the tenancy agreement.” – Danny Iles
Beyond fulfilling a legal obligation, the current situation exposes larger issues endured by all Swindon residents as they demand better living conditions from the local government. Metro councillor Janine Howarth addressed these worries directly at the conference. She promised Iles and others the council is focused on addressing housing quality issues.
“We reassure Danny that we are working over the next five years to bring the housing stock up to the standard it should have been over the past 20 years.” – Councillor Janine Howarth
The ongoing plight of tenants like Iles serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for local councils to address housing issues effectively. While Iles continues to seek resolution for his water leak, many other residents share similar experiences and frustrations regarding social housing in Swindon.
