Criterion Capital said any decisions taken about air conditioning had been made by the leaseholders, Aura and People First Housing.<\/p>\n
The company added: “The UK is presently experiencing a heatwave, and many Londoners are having to adapt. Many tenants, whether in the private or social sectors, as well as homeowners, will be managing intense heat.”<\/p>\n
Aura said it had remained in contact with the residents who had raised concerns and “at no time have we instructed residents not to use the air conditioning provided”.<\/p>\n
“All residents, including those occupying temporary accommodation, are informed before moving into the building that air conditioning is available within their apartments as an optional amenity.”<\/p>\n
They added: “We recognise that many households in temporary accommodation are experiencing financial pressures, and we take our responsibilities towards them seriously. <\/p>\n
“Our communications have therefore sought to balance residents’ comfort with awareness of potential utility costs.”<\/p>\n
The BBC asked Aura and People First Housing whether there had ever been an arrangement to switch off air conditioning, or otherwise restrict access to it, in flats used as temporary accommodation, but received no response to this question.<\/p>\n
A spokesperson for Sutton council said it was concerned with the experience Paige has had.<\/p>\n
They said: “The council continuously reviews the suitability of our temporary accommodation offered to ensure managing agents maintain properties to an appropriate standard, treat residents with dignity and respect, and respond quickly to any issues raised.”<\/p>\n
Sutton council added that it made a decision earlier in the year not to place any new residents in Britannia Point.<\/p>\n
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