Hornsby residents convinced they live in worst Public Housing facility in NSW as pigeons take over

Suffering residents in Hornsby’s Linda St public housing complex are convinced they are living in one of the worst public housing facilities in the state.

A public housing tenant believes her building is one of the worst in Sydney.

“IT IS the worst public housing in Hornsby, maybe even the state.”

Suffering residents in Hornsby’s Linda St public housing complex are convinced they are living in one of the worst public housing facilities in the state, as an outbreak of faeces, pigeon infestation and “disgusting conditions” have left them fearing for their health and safety.

One resident in her late 60s, who did not wish to be named, said the dire conditions have left her suffering from medical issues, since moving into the third floor of the complex several years ago.

Pidgeon faeces covers the carpeted public space. Photo: Adam Ward

A Hornsby Public Housing resident believes her apartment block is the worst in the state. Photo: Adam Ward

“NSW Housing just doesn’t want to know about their properties, they only want your rent,” she said.

“The building is neglected and the place is riddled with Pigeons.

“I am suffering from severe depression from living here, we are the forgotten people of Hornsby.”

The resident said she also fears for the health and wellbeing of another tenant, who lives in the complex with an infant child.

“It is easy to put people in these places, but it is hard to get them out,” she said.

“Sometimes I just stand here and cry and think that something should be done, but they will only act when someone dies, which will happen.

“I am grateful to have a roof over my head, but in these conditions, I’d rather be homeless.”

Home made repairs to pigeon damaged fly screens. Photo: Adam Ward

The tenant said residents feel like the “forgotten people of Hornsby”. Photo: Adam Ward

The tenant, who said she has been asking to be transferred to other housing in the region for the past two years, said numerous complaints to the NSW department of Family and Community services have “fallen on deaf ears”.

“The common areas are riddled with pigeon faeces as well as a pigeon infestation, which makes the smell unbearable, especially on hot days,” she said.

“They should be disgusted, the housing department is a disgrace. Three weeks ago I sent a letter to Mr Hazzard regarding the conditions here, I am yet to receive a response from him.

“People need to see what is happening here.”

A NSW department of Family and Community Services spokesman said contractors are responsible for cleaning and maintenance in common areas of NSW Family and Community Services social housing properties.

FACS could not provide information on when an inspection will take place at the complex. Photo: Adam Ward

“The contractor inspects the complex once a fortnight and then arranges for common area cleaning as required,” the spokesman said.

“Four complaints (have) been received by the Land and Housing Corporation in regards to maintenance of the building in public living spaces.”

The spokesman said mould was also reported inside an apartment in the past twelve months.

“The property is due for various upgrade works commencing in February,” the spokesman said.

“The works include external painting, installation of bird spikes, repair of gutters and downpipes, replacement of common area carpet, tree lopping and pruning, and installation of additional common area lighting.

“In addition to this work and in response to the issues which have been raised, FACS is arranging a visit to the property this week to determine if there are other works required to be done.”