Cambridge Labour Party has passed a motion in support of the Montreal Square Residents’ Campaign “in their opposition to the demolition of their homes by Cambridge Housing Society and the redevelopment of the site.”

The motion was proposed by Unite Cambridge Community branch, and seconded by Romsey Ward Labour Party in response to proposals by the CHS Group to demolish 18 homes to make way for the new development, which would bring more affordable homes to the area by reducing the size of the gardens.

Anna Smith, Labour City Councillor for Romsey says, “As a local councillor one of my key roles is to represent the community in which I serve. So, I was delighted to see such strong support from Cambridge Labour Party for this resolution in support of Romsey residents, a resolution which I know has the full support of Romsey Labour.

No-one is challenging the need for social housing in our city. And that’s why the Labour council has earmarked sites for 535 council homes to be built over the next few years. But the majority of residents in Montreal Square are opposed to the current plans, and are fighting tenaciously to keep their homes, with an impressive grassroots campaign.

I welcome the fact that CHS met with residents last week, and I urge them to keep the discussions going, and to withdraw their plans if they cannot get the majority of residents on board.

A spokesperson for the Montreal Square Residents’ Association says, “It’s fantastic to have the backing of Cambridge Labour party. Over the past year, we’ve received support from Unite Cambridge Community branch and Romsey Labour along with 3,000 signatures on our petition. We hope that this motion sends a clear message to CHS to reconsider their plans.”

James Youd, Secretary of Unite Cambridge Community says, “We’re happy to see Cambridge Labour Party lending their full support to the Montreal Square Residents’ Association campaign. This grassroots campaign has had a huge positive response from Cambridge residents and we urge CHS to listen to the residents of Montreal Square. “

The Motion in Full 

“Cambridge Labour Party, internally and publicly elected officials support the Montreal Square Residents Campaign in their opposition to the demolition of their homes by Cambridge Housing Society and the redevelopment of the site. Labour Party policy is only to permit redevelopment of Social Housing where there is a democratic mandate from the residents to do so. In the case of the 18 houses on Montreal Square and the opposition of residents this is clearly not the case. Therefore, Cambridge CLP must stand with the residents in defence of their community and their homes.’