Neighbours fume over ‘eyesore’ derelict estate as last-man standing locals refuse to leave so block can be flattened
NEIGHBOURS are fuming over an "eyesore" derelict estate - with one defiant local refusing to leave so the block can be flattened.
The block in Swanscombe, Kent has been boarded up and earmarked for demolition after the local council ruled out pricey repairs.
Flats in the building had been dogged by damp, weak foundations and cracked windows and ceilings.
The council gave tenants a one-off payment of £7,800 as compensation for moving out.
Most of them took the money and left - but one resident is staying put.
Demolition plans were confirmed last week but have been postponed because of the last man standing.
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Neighbours Miranda Richards told the : "When I walk past it from my car late at night, it is scary.
"I don’t like walking past a derelict building. There used to be trees there to mask the flats but they have come down."
Another neighbour said: "It’s an eyesore. There is always fly-tipping there."
Ward councillor Emma Ben Moussa said: "The uncertainty for the residents around the area has been quite unfair.
"They have been left like that for a while now. Whatever decision is going to be made I would like it to be made quite quickly.
"They should know what is happening as they have been left in limbo."
Dartford Council said: "The council is currently considering future options for the use of the site."
A spokesperson added: "We await the final residents to vacate the block.
"Once the block is vacant, a proposal with recommendations will be made to the council’s cabinet.”
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
A council tenant's rights are laid out in section 105 of The Housing Act, 1985.
This gives secure tenants rights to be consulted by their landlord on matters relating to the management, maintenance, improvement or demolition to their homes, to make their views heard and that the authority considers tenants’ representations.
Although this is an individual right, it can be used effectively through tenants working together.
Most council tenants, presently, are secure tenants as are some housing association tenants - where their tenancy started before January 1989.
Consultations are carried out where development proposals may have an impact for secure council tenants.
Leaseholders are also asked for their feedback and kept informed.
As a secure tenant, you can normally live in the property for the rest of your life, as long as you do not break the conditions of the tenancy.
As a flexible tenant, you have tenancy for a fixed period. This is usually for at least five years, though in some cases it may be between two and five years.
If the council needs to move you, for example to redevelop the property - it should offer you a new property and a new tenancy with no less security.