Gentoo. Stop Decommissioning the Washington District Heating System For 6 Months, To Allow A Proper Consultation To Take Place

The Facts

Gentoo have been in the process of decommissioning the Washington District Heating Scheme for several years. 

Gentoo have sent factually incorrect information to residents. 

Gentoo have been responsible for maintaining pipework and radiators in private homes for decades but are saying homeowners are now responsible for replacing them at a cost of around £3000 if they wish to do so. 

Gentoo's contractor has been observed by residents failing to follow simple Health and Safety rules. Residents have reported stairwells being blocked so that there is no means of fire escape and sharp objects/debris being left in pathways posing a potential danger to residents.

Gentoo's contractor has caught the attention of our local councillors. Cllr Paul Donaghy has reported one incident to the HSE. Cllr Louise Farthing recently wrote to Marc Edwards from Gentoo asking for the operatives of Gentoos' contractor to have a Health and Safety refresher course so they understand what Health and Safety means in practice.

Gentoo have asked tenants to remove and reinstate flooring at their own expense, leaving tenants out of pocket. 

Our Demands

We demand that Gentoo stop all work on the decommissioning of the Washington District Heating System for 6 months to allow a proper and meaningful consultation to take place with all households affected. 

We demand that Gentoo take the Health and Safety of residents seriously, ensure its' contractors are properly trained and that appropriate Health and Safety procedures are followed at all times.

We demand that Gentoo cease trying to divide residents in our community. We ask Gentoo to consult collectively with our representatives.