MALDON MP Sir John Whittingdale has praised a housing development firm for the way it has tackled public concerns over a new site in the town.

Sir John says: "Following concerns raised with me by a number of residents of the new Handley Gardens development in Maldon, I recently met with the management team to tour the estate and to discuss these. 

"I welcome the recognition by Taylor Wimpey that the previous management of the estate by FirstPort did not meet the standards expected.

"The new management company, POD management has assured me that they are committed to greater transparency with residents over the setting of service charges and what these cover.

"However, recent rises in labour costs as a result of higher National Insurance contributions and the minimum wage inevitably have resulted in increases.

"Work will also be carried out to remedy defects on the estate with replanting of grass and trees which have suffered during the record hot summer.

"A full list of these will be supplied to residents as well as a regular newsletter.

"The Handley Gardens development comprises some 640 houses and I understand from Taylor Wimpey that it is proving to be their most popular in London and the South East.

"I am delighted to welcome all those moving to new homes in Maldon and am pleased at the commitment shown by the management team to address the concerns that residents have expressed."