A housing association looks set to close its rent office in South Oxhey as part of a cost-cutting drive.

Thrive Homes has announced it is planning to close its offices in Oxhey Drive, South Oxhey and its services at Three Rivers District Council offices in Rickmansworth.

The housing association says the move could save them £250,000 and stressed “more and more” people are choosing to pay rent by Direct Debit, Paypoint, phone or online, with fewer people are paying by cash.

In a letter sent out to residents, Thrive partly blamed "cuts to social rents" which means it cannot support "duplication of service delivery".

Councillor Stephen Cox, leader of Three Rivers Labour Group has blasted the consultation.

He said: "Thrive claim this is a consultation but it is the biggest done deal for years.

They are intent on killing off the rent office. I am worried about the services that are being lost in South Oxhey. But for them to claim it is in the name of fairness, shows you how ridiculous what they are propososing to do is."

Mark Thomas, spokesman for Thrive Homes said: “Thrive Homes is consulting with local tenants and leaseholders on proposals to close its South Oxhey area office and payment services at the Three Rivers District Council one-stop shop in Rickmansworth.

“Reasons for the closure include reduced demand, with fewer people choosing to pay their rent in cash at the office, preferring direct debit, online or PayPoint options and the need to implement cost efficiencies at a time when national policy is placing significant constraints on housing association income.

“Throughout the consultation period, Thrive is offering advice on alternative options to visitors at the office. The office closure would bring South Oxhey in line with all Thrive’s areas of operation so we offer a fair and consistent service for all our tenants.”

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