The Lift Project: A Lesson in Engagement

The recent lift replacement project at Chalkwell Lodge highlighted key challenges in how large-scale works are communicated and managed. While we recognise the importance of maintaining and improving shared facilities, the process raised concerns about transparency and leaseholder engagement.

Lack of Consultation

During the project, many leaseholders felt there was limited communication about key decisions, including how proposals were evaluated and chosen. Letters from Hair and Son informed residents about the replacement but did not provide meaningful opportunities for feedback or discussion. As a result, many leaseholders felt excluded from the decision-making process, leaving them unsure of how their contributions were being spent.

Financial Concerns

The project’s costs placed a significant financial burden on leaseholders. While we understand the need for high-quality work, the lack of detailed information about these charges caused confusion and frustration. Hair and Son claim that payment plans were offered to some residents, but the overall process felt stressful and disconnected, particularly during a time when the cost of living is already high.

The Role of the Committee and AGM

The committee plays an essential role in representing residents’ interests, but the AGM—held only once a year—may not be sufficient to address leaseholders’ concerns about large projects like the lifts. The high attendance at the 2021 AGM demonstrated how important this issue was to residents, yet many felt the meeting lacked the space for meaningful dialogue or collaborative problem-solving.

Moving Forward: A Call for Collaboration

The lift project underscores the need for better engagement and transparency. For future projects, we believe:

• Regular updates and consultations should be provided to ensure leaseholders are informed and included in decisions that affect them.
• Financial transparency must be prioritised, with clear, itemised breakdowns of costs shared proactively.
• A collaborative approach between Hair and Son, the committee, and leaseholders can foster trust and reduce the stress associated with large-scale works.

Share Your Experience

We want to hear from you. How did you feel about the management of the lift project? Were your concerns addressed? Do you believe there’s room for improvement in how similar projects are handled in the future? Let’s work together to ensure that every resident’s voice is heard, and that we build a stronger, more inclusive community.