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The Chairman of Epping Forest District Council led councillors in a minute’s silence and offered their condolences to the victims of the recent tragedy in Nottingham.
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Condolences to the victims and their families
Opening the special meeting of the Council, originally called to discuss capital budget and employment issues, Councillor Darshan Sunger said:
No one can have failed to be shocked and appalled by the tragic events that took place in Nottingham a few days ago. I know the hearts of all members and staff go out to the victims and their families.
He continued:
I feel we should express the condolences of the Council to the families of Grace O’Malley-Kumar, Barnaby Webber, Ian Coates and the other victims of the tragedy that unfolded in Nottingham. I would like to say a few words about Grace in particular.
Grace lived near to our district. She was a fine sportsperson and played hockey with Old Loughtonians in Chigwell. She attended Bancroft School on the border of Woodford with Buckhurst Hill, where no doubt she made many friends with young people from our district. Many of our residents will be grieving for her loss.
To cut short the life and potential of such a special person is indeed a great tragedy. Our thoughts and best wishes go out to everyone who knew and loved her.”
Love and support
District Councillors Pranav Bhanot and Razia Shariff spoke with great emotion as they described their personal experiences of Grace and her family. Councillor Shariff knew Grace from an early age. Councillor Bhanot hoped the families might take some comfort from the love and support of those around them.
Agenda items
A subdued Council then moved on to the scheduled business. Members agreed reports on the development of employment land at North Weald Airfield and variation of the capital programme to acquire leasehold interests in council-owned property at Cartersfield Road, Waltham Abbey. Both investments should lead to the creation of local jobs and income to support public services.
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