Pledge over demolition

Dec 06, 2006 02:12:41

Maintaining as normal a community life as possible in a Middlesbrough housing area earmarked for extensive demolitions will be a priority, says Middlesbrough Council chiefs. Over the next decade, 1,500 homes are to be demolished in the Gresham and Middle haven wards. Almost £9m has been allocated by the council to buy up 248 houses and seven business premises in Phase 1A of the scheme. Towards the end of November a start will also be made on £1m of improvement works to scores of older terraced houses outside the demolition zone. Dave Budd, executive councillor for regeneration, said: "Maintaining the quality of life for people in the area will be a top priority. It will be expensive but that is what we have to do."Jan Lewis, team leader of the council's urban planning and implementation unit, said: "We are working hard with all the agencies to make sure we have resources to address issues when properties are vacated."A lot of effort is being put in to ensure the area remains a fully functional neighbourhood during this period of change."