Congleton residents are being treated like a 'cash cow'.

That is the view of MP Sarah Russell, who was speaking at a recent debate in Westminster on residential estates' management companies.

She refers to issues forwarded to her by constituents in Alsager, Congleton, Holmes Chapel, and Sandbach by which large bills are being handed to them with little to no explanation as to why, or how the suppliers are being chosen to do work on their behalf. 

Following the debate on Tuesday (April 22), Mrs Russell said: "I can't allow my constituents to be drained of their hard-earned money without any explanation from those charging them.

"This isn't restricted to one place. These issues are coming into my inbox from every part of our community.

"I was limited in the time that I had during that debate and could sadly have given many more details of other residents experiencing similar problems.

"There is far too little transparency coming from some of the big players in the managing  agent market who have a captive set of customers, and little apparent commitment to providing value for money. 

"I am worried that these problems will only increase.

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"I want people to be able to enjoy their homes.

"I am very worried about the prospect of higher bills for people in newer estates, as these age and maintenance needs increase.

"This is why I am calling on the government to do more".

One item that Mrs Russell referred to are retirement homes in Alsager met with a £14,000 electricity bill from First Port, their management company.

This was down to just three lights in communal areas.

The Labour MP also echoed calls by Mid Cheshire MP Andrew Cooper for implementation of Section 42 of the Flood and Water Management Act 2010.

This provides for the automatic adoption by the sewerage companies of new sewers for new properties, and sets build standards before this responsibility is assumed.

She also called for an equivalent to be created for roads, and for play areas/public areas to be 'accepted by and adopted by local authorities'.

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Russell has since signed Mr Cooper's amendment to upcoming legislation in the House of Commons, which if it were to pass, would do the same thing in respect of the adoption of roads.