Joe Baxter Way - Honouring a Homeowners rights hero
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The passing of Joe Baxter at the age of 83 marks the end of an era for the community of West Lothian, as they bid farewell to a man whose life was defined by unwavering determination, faith, and service.
Joe Baxter's journey, from RAF pilot to Senior Contract Accountant to traveling Evangelist, is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of standing up for what is right.
Now, a grieving community stands united in its plea for a road to be dedicated in honor of the devoted servant of God and stalwart of the community.
Eighteen years ago, a travelling evangelist, Joe Baxter, found himself ensnared in the aftermath of a crippling financial debacle triggered by revelations of shoddy construction involving bubbly concrete in his residence. Baxter, a seasoned Senior Contract Accountant turned itinerant preacher of the Gospel, had once proudly served his nation as an RAF pilot until a perforated eardrum permanently grounded him, leading to his medical discharge.
Mr. Baxter, along with ten other steadfast homeowners, defiantly contested the decision of West Lothian Council to demolish 86 homes in the Deans South Area. These homes had been sold to unsuspecting ex-council tenants without adequate compensation. While 76 homeowners succumbed to accepting meager payments, which barely scratched the surface of their homes' true value, Mr. Baxter, his wife Isabel, and a group of nine fellow homeowners refused to yield. They endured nearly two decades of hardship, living in homes condemned due to RAAC/Siporex roofing, in a community ghettoized by the council's neglect to maintain an area they sought to clear. Yet, their resilience and unyielding resolve persevered, eventually leading to the construction of 10 new homes on the site by Springfield Homes. Their tenacity breathed new life into the community, offering a glimmer of hope for a fresh start to all those affected. Tragically, Joe Baxter did not live to witness the realization of his dream—the handover of his new bungalow—as he passed away at the age of 83 from a debilitating blood cancer. This illness presented significant challenges in his later years. However, despite the obstacles he faced, Joe confronted each day with remarkable courage and acceptance, finding comfort in the resolution of the housing issue and the assurance that his beloved wife, Isabel, would receive the home they both yearned for.
Kerry, a neighbor of the Baxters and leader of the campaign for over two decades, expressed profound sorrow at the loss of a pillar of the community, someone who had been like a father to her. Throughout the arduous campaign for justice, she had often relied on Mr. Baxter for support and drew inspiration from his unwavering hope and steadfast prayers. His absence left a void in the hearts of many, yet his legacy of resilience and compassion continues to inspire those who knew him.
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A solemn service was held for Mr. Baxter at Livingston Old Parish St. Andrew's Church in Deans, attended by over 200 mourners. The community has been deeply shaken by the loss of this paternal figure, whose presence was a guiding light to many. His legacy of faith, love, and selflessness will continue to resonate within the hearts of all who knew him.
Calls for a road to be dedicated to Mr. Baxter in acknowledgment of his significant contributions to the community and his unwavering 18-year struggle have gained momentum. Wilson Chowdhry, representing the UK RAAC Campaign Group, took the initiative to reach out to developers Springfield Housing. Following discussions with a senior figure, it has been agreed that a formal request will be drafted and submitted to the council for approval.
We the undersigned petition West Lothian Council to permit the naming of a Road on the Deans South Estate in honour of Joe Baxter. We call for the council to accept the named Joe Baxter Way which is to be submitted by Springfield Housing.
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