CENTRAL Devon MP Mel Stride visited Oaklands Park in Okehampton, following a letter from one of its residents.

Oaklands is a residential park, full of static mobile homes designed to provide affordable housing for those looking to get on the property ladder, or for those looking to free up capital later in life.

Mr Stride received a letter from resident and secretary of the Oaklands Park Residents' Association Roger Pavely, regarding the treatment of tenants at the site.

Mr Pavely said: 'We have been having difficulties in the past few years at the site. We've not had a site warden, there have been problems with rubbish, and broken up caravans.

'It was a very interesting meeting with Mel Stride, I walked him around the site. He seemed very interested to hear about the problems we have had here, and ask how he could help.'

Residents were updated on the latest Government legislation designed to help them, discussing the new Residential Property Tribunal for dispute resolution.

Mr Stride said: 'It was very useful to have an opportunity to speak to residents and better understand their concerns and issues.

'I have worked hard in Westminster to press for stronger protection for park home tenants and am particularly pleased the Government has brought through the Residential Property Tribunal service.'

A Residential Property Tribunal hearing was held at Central Devon Magistrates Court on September 23 to establish the legitimacy of the Oaklands Park Residents' Association, which was challenged by the park operator.

The hearing was the first of its kind in the region. Among those in attendance were residents from Oaklands and residents from four other residents associations in Exeter, Paignton, Tedburn St Mary and Plympton. The decision from the tribunal is expected in the coming weeks.

The owners, Oaklands Park Ltd, could not be contacted for comment.