A Bangladeshi migrant, Shahidul Haque, 59, has finally moved his family out of a one-bedroom retirement flat in Reading after a two-year dispute, an outcome celebrated by residents who reported significant disruption. Haque had moved into the David Smith Court accommodation in July 2024 and was joined months later by his 28-year-old wife and their three-year-old twin daughters.
The accommodation is designated for individuals over 55 and intended for single occupancy. Southern Housing, the provider, sought eviction, but Haque resisted, citing his rights under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights and claiming a lack of understanding of the original agreement due to it not being in his native Sylheti dialect. He had previously stated he would not leave unless larger accommodation was provided.
Residents described the family's presence as making their lives a "living hell," citing constant noise from the children from morning until late at night. One resident reported multiple complaints to management that went unaddressed quickly. The legal action to remove Haque and his family is estimated to have incurred significant costs for taxpayers.
While residing in the flat, Haque, who has lived in the UK since 1997, claimed disability benefits for depression and sleep apnea, which covered the weekly rent of £110.70. He had previously worked in Bangladeshi restaurants in London.
During a court hearing, Haque's legal representative suggested that taxpayers should not bear the costs of the case, but Southern Housing's lawyer called the claim "opportunistic." The judge ultimately deemed it inappropriate to award costs to either party.
Leslie Smith, a resident of 12 years, expressed relief at the family's departure, noting that children were not suited to the environment, especially given the presence of elderly residents and potential exposure to difficult sights.
Court documents submitted by Southern Housing detailed instances of "misuse of safety features," including an emergency assistance cord being pulled nine times in a single day in December 2024, and described the family as a "source of excess noise levels and anti-social behaviour."
Haque's defense previously argued that his disability, limited English, and receipt of benefits meant eviction would severely impact his health and family life. He had demanded that Southern Housing or West Berkshire Council find him alternative, larger accommodation before agreeing to move.
Haque, who is registered disabled, came to the UK in 1997 and became homeless after a divorce. His children hold British citizenship, and his wife is in the UK on a spousal visa. Southern Housing has been approached for further comment.