HOUSING association tenants have spoken of their anxieties and fears at the prospect of their home being demolished.

Residents were reacting to consultation launched by Believe Housing to pull down homes at Vicarage Flats and Silver Courts in Brandon, near Durham.

Sebastian Di Gatto said: “I moved in five month ago and have spent over £1,000 on the move fixtures and fittings and have now been told I could lose my home.

“It is an absolute nightmare – not just for me but many others who feel very strongly that these are our homes. They have lived here for many years and don’t want to move.

“We have a community spirit rarely found in these times. Elderly residents are visited and cared for by others in the community. It is a warm and welcoming place to feel safe and call home.

“If these homes are allowed to be demolished the residents will be spread far and wide across Durham and the community will be lost.

“Many are now feeling frightened, stressed and are losing sleep over this.”

Another resident who did not wish to be named, said: “I have lived here for 10 years. My wife and I really don’t want to move.

“We hope they will change their minds and keep our homes standing.”

Another tenant said; “We have lived here for 30 years and uprooting will be very difficult for us.”

Durham county councillor Jonathan Elmer said: “Believe are starting process of producing a regeneration masterplan for the houses of that area of Brandon and as part of that they have written to residents of the estates.

“There is a potential those houses will be demolished, though they haven’t made a firm decision.

“Of course, it has created a lot of anxiety. Many are older people that never thought they would have to move at that age.”

He added: “I think there are about 70 people affected. What I am asking Believe as an organisation to do, is to consider every tenant’s individual circumstances and needs and be proactive iun supporting them through this traumatic period.

“I have sought assurances that is the approach they will take.”

Ian Porter, director of neighbourhoods and customer service, from Believe housing said: “We’re currently part way through a six-week consultation with residents of Silver Courts and Vicarage Flats about proposals to demolish these properties.

“Demand for these properties has been low for some considerable time, and this consultation process is to gain residents’ views prior to any final decision being made.

“We are currently speaking to those residents directly affected by our proposal to make them aware of all the possible outcomes, and have also spoken to Durham County Council officers and local councillors. We will ensure we maintain this dialogue.

“Like any consultation of this nature there are different views but we’ve already had some valuable feedback, with lots of residents understanding why we are proposing this action. They are pleased that we’re looking to improve the area and address the long-term needs of our customers.

“At the end of the consultation, the feedback we receive will be used to help make a decision about the next steps.

“I’d like to reassure everyone in Silver Courts and Vicarage Flats again that there is no risk of being left without a home, or support, whatever the result of this consultation.”

 

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