An elderly couple from Lye say they have been waiting more than seven years for a council-promised kitchen refurbishment that has still not been carried out. Michael White, 79, and his wife Christine, 75, who live on Stourbridge Road, first requested the work in 2019. Despite repeated follow-ups, they say the replacement has still not happened.
Couple's ordeal since 2019
The Whites say they were first promised a new kitchen by Dudley Council in 2020. Michael White described the experience as “an absolute nightmare,” adding: “All we keep getting is excuse after excuse.” He also noted that workers have visited the house to complete other jobs, but not the kitchen.
The couple said the council has acknowledged that their kitchen cupboards, tiles, and flooring all need replacing. Mr White said he removed some cupboard doors himself out of concern they might fall and injure his wife. Many of the doors were hanging loose on their hinges, he explained.
Council cites contractor shortage
Dudley Council has cited a shortage of contractors as the reason for the long delay, according to the couple. Last year, they contacted their MP, Cat Eccles, who they said was “really good and helpful.” Following her intervention, the council inspected the property in April 2025 and confirmed the kitchen would be replaced within the following year.
However, nearly 18 months later, the work has still not begun. Councillor Daniel Bevan, cabinet member for development and regulation, said: “We are committed to investing in our housing services and we are working hard to improve the condition of our homes. Following an inspection in 2025, the kitchen in this property was identified for replacement within this year’s work programme.”
Council promises action in early 2027
Councillor Bevan added: “While many planned replacement works have been completed, some have been delayed due to contractor availability. We have been working hard behind the scenes to progress these and anticipate that the kitchen replacement programme will continue in early 2027. We will be in touch with tenants in advance of any scheduled works.”
He also said: “In the meantime, any repair issues that are deemed under housing repairs guidelines as landlords’ responsibility can continue to be reported through the council's repairs service and emergency repairs remain available where required.”
The White family dispute the council's timeline, saying they were first promised a new kitchen in 2020 and that the 2025 date refers only to when they contacted Ms Eccles for support. They said they were first told a new kitchen was needed seven years ago.
