Previous responses to questions

What is an estate ballot?

An estate ballot is the democratic process of asking residents to make a “yes” or “no” decision in writing on the issue of whether to proceed with an estate regeneration scheme.

What is the GLA Ballot Process?

As of July 2018, in accordance with the Mayor of London's requirement, any landlord (MTVH) who is looking to complete an estate regeneration project, which would entail the demolition of social homes, as is the case with Heston Grange, must demonstrate that they have obtained residents' support for their proposals through a vote by the residents.

Who is eligible to vote in the Ballot?

The Ballot will be open to all residents aged 16 years or older who live at Heston Grange. Each eligible resident is entitled to one vote, but there is no limit on the number of votes per household. For instance, a household at Heston Grange consisting of a family of four, including two parents, a primary school-aged child, and an 18-year-old, would have three votes.

There are certain criteria determining who cannot vote. For instance, residents living in temporary accommodations and privately rented sectors are ineligible to vote unless they have been on the local authority housing register for one year or more, regardless of their tenure on the estate.

When will I know if a ballot will take place?

MTVH will continue to work with you and your neighbours to consider potential options for the future of the estate. Based on the outcome of that work with residents, MTVH would then need to formally confirm a preferred future for the estate and prepare plans in more detail.

Who is responsible for undertaking the Ballot?

Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing will appoint an independent body that has experience in undertaking a ballot. This independent body will review processes for registration of voters, distribute the Landlord Offer, advise landlords on the questions to be put on the Ballot, ensure the votes are accurately recorded and counted, and confirm the overall ballot process meets the GLA requirements.

What is the landlord's offer?

This is the information residents will receive to enable them to make an informed decision and vote in the ballot. It will set out the MTVH commitment to residents in the event of a redevelopment. Included within the offer will be an understanding of the objectives of the redevelopment of Heston Grange, the design principles, the number of new homes and greenspace provided, the type and tenure mix of the new homes, their delivery and the consultation that will continue through the process.

What happens if the ballot vote is a yes

If residents vote in favour of the Landlord’s offer a simple majority is required to pass the vote and lead to the redevelopment of Heston Grange. There is no minimum threshold for a turnout.

If the vote is a no, can there be another ballot?

If the vote is no, then MTVH will continue to operate Heston Grange as normal. They will maintain the estate in its current form and carry out repairs as they are reported. However, there are no limits on the number of ballots that can be held and a revised Landlord Offer can be put to residents in the event of a negative vote.