Local MP, David Rutley, joined residents on the Jasmine Park estate in Broken Cross, Macclesfield, to help address their strong concerns about current leasehold arrangements, at a well-attended meeting on Saturday 3rd February 2018.
Nearly all of the 130 properties on the development, constructed by Taylor Wimpey between 2008-2010, were sold on a leasehold basis. However, the terms of the leaseholds were unusual in that many of Jasmine Park’s leases attract a ground rent, payable to the freeholder, which doubles every ten years. Taylor Wimpey subsequently sold the freehold to E&J Estates, without consultation. Residents who have since tried to exercise their statutory right to buy their freehold have been quoted prices of between £40,000 and £50,000 by E&J Estates, which residents feel are much higher than a fair price. These issues have had a significant impact on leaseholders’ ability to sell their properties.
In response, residents have formed an action group, led by Cllr Chris Andrew and Natalie Whitehead, and organised the recent meeting to discuss how to take their concerns forward, seeking support from Taylor Wimpey in doing so. David joined the recent meeting, which was also addressed by property lawyer Sarah Waddington, to listen to the concerns of residents, and expressed his full support for the group’s endeavours.
Speaking after his visit, David said, “This is a very difficult situation for many residents, who face escalating ground rents and difficulties in selling their properties. I will be taking up these concerns with both Taylor Wimpey and with Government Ministers, to understand what support can be offered to help address the challenges that residents face.”