Family flies from the Kestrel nest

Mr and Mrs Husseyin Gul and their two children are celebrating their recent move from a two bedroom flat in Kestrel House on the Alma Estate in Ponders End to a three bedroom house in Enfield EN1.

The family is delighted that their move has happened within two months of their bid for a new home.

Cllr Ahmet Oykener, Enfield’s cabinet member for housing, said, “The renewal of the Alma estate is a key housing priority and we are trying as hard as we can to satisfy our tenants’ wishes.

“Tenants are being moved out to make way for the demolition of the old tower blocks. New family homes and community facilities will be a reality in a few years’ time.  

“Some of our tenants are opting to move out for good, bidding for housing in other areas in the borough. Other tenants are choosing to remain on the estate to be moved into new council homes. 

“The Gul family made a successful bid for their permanent home through the Choice Based Letting system.  They now have a three bed room house and garden. This replaces their overcrowded two bedroom flat on the ninth floor of Kestrel House where they lived for 15 years.”

Over time Kestrel House and the other Alma tower blocks have aged; lifts break down constantly; pipes leak; and as the buildings deteriorate they become increasingly difficult to maintain and repair.

The Guls’ daughter who is now 17 had to share a room with her eight year old brother. Moving into bigger space was a priority for the family.

Mrs Sultan Gul received regular support from council housing officers during the bidding and moving process.  

She said, “It was extremely helpful to have their support and we are so pleased that we have moved to this family home. Unlike Kestrel House it is quiet here and relaxing and my children have their own space.”

Mr Gul added, “We appreciate the help that we were given and I know that we shall be happy in our new home where our young son can play safely.”

Some tenants on the Alma estate are anxious about the redevelopment process; support systems and procedures; but Mrs Gul said reassuringly, “I did not believe that it would be possible to be re-housed, but now I know it is.”