Residents call public meeting in battle for gas compensation

Thursday, 04 February 2010

By Nick Griffin

DISGRUNTLED residents fighting for better compensation after a massive gas failure hit East Barnet over Christmas are to hold a public meeting.

In recent weeks there has been growing anger among residents who were left without heating or hot water during record sub-zero temperatures over the Christmas break, about levels of compensation and the way in which the incident was handled.
Campaigners are hoping representatives from utility company National Grid will agree to attend a public meeting scheduled for next Wednesday to answer residents’ questions.

At least 1,000 homes were left without gas when supplies failed on December 20 after the cold weather caused a water main to burst in York Road, New Barnet, forcing water into gas pipes.

Residents forced to use fan heaters, which are expensive to run, and to fork out for takeaway meals say they will be left out of pocket by the £30-a-day compensation on offer.

Those without gas on Christmas Day and Boxing Day are also being offered a £100 payout for each day they were off, but only if they have registered.

Bernard Walsh, of Brookhill Road, who was without gas until December 28 and is now orchestrating the campaign, said: “If National Grid turns up then great, if they don’t, it just shows the contempt they have for the people of East Barnet. All we want is answers, assurances, an apology and fair compensation.”

The meeting is due to take place on February 10 at the New Barnet Community Centre, 48–50 Victoria Road, New Barnet, at 7.30pm.

Email: nick.griffin@nlhnews.co.uk

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