The History Of Cidtra

Originally organised in 2003 to oppose the proposed development of homes in Jersey Close to replace a derelict block of shops and flats. Evidence of local feelings was gathered from a flyer asking interested residents to come to a meeting to discuss the proposals. A result of this was that a residents committee was formed with the help of local authority and constitution drawn up for the Association. August 2003.

Meetings were held with SCC along with Swaythling Housing Association (who was buying the land to develop). Several objections were raised and the plans were altered to take some of these into account. A drop-in session was held to present these to residents. Planning permission was granted by SCC who dismissed objections and gave reasons. Several of the original committee felt that the Association had failed and resigned; however the committee decided that there was still profit to be had by working with the developers to have some influence on how they carried out the work. Strong links were formed with SCC officers; the building contractors Drew Smith; Swaythling; and others. We joined the Federation of Southampton Tenants and Residents Association and Southampton Voluntary Services Organisation.

Monthly Open Meetings were held, where officials were invited, to keep residents informed. Newsletters were printed at regular intervals; the aims of the Association shifted here slightly to broaden the scope of the Association by addressing other problems on the Estate such as vandalism; crime and lack of facilities for young people.

At the first AGM new officials were elected.