Should flats be given new life or be razed?

Residents of a Wigan council estate are to be asked whether homes there ought to be revamped - or flattened.

The Worsley Mesnes householders are being consulted on the future of three blocks of flats in Blake Close which have seen better days.

Options include the refurbishment of the flats, finding an alternative use for the flats or rehousing the tenants and the demolition of the flats.

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The future of a nearby row of 12 garages is also being considered.

Janice Barton, chief executive of Wigan and Leigh Homes (WALH), said: “We are consulting with residents in Blake Close on how best we can improve the area. Wigan and Leigh Homes is committed to investing in our communities to improve the lives of all of our residents.

“We will keep the residents affected by any changes fully informed as the consultation process continues.”

​The decision will be considered by Wigan and Leigh Homes’ board and Wigan Council next month. Wigan and Leigh Homes and Wigan Council are looking to develop a wider regeneration masterplan for Worsley Mesnes to help improve the area in the years to come.

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​The master planning process will look at issues such as the quality of housing stock, demand for houses in the area and improving the quality of life and health and wellbeing of residents.

Community input is essential in shaping future plans and consultation events will start later in the year.

​Current investment in the area by WALH and the council includes a 39-unit older persons apartment block at Little Lane which replaces Brackley House Sheltered Scheme and is due for completion in 12 months.

WALH has also submitted a planning application for a 22-unit development of two and three bedroom houses on land at Holt Street, Worsley Mesnes.

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Residents can find out more about current investments and the planning for Worsley Mesnes at the Have Your Say session at Wigan Council’s Deal in Action in Clifton Street Community Centre from 6.30pm to 8pm on Thursday. Council leader Lord Smith, and chief executive Donna Hall will answer questions about The Deal and local issues.

Blake Close was eight years ago hit by a massive explosion caused by a resident deliberately tampering with a gas meter. Two people were critically, one of whom later died. The resident, Joseph McPhillips, admitted causing the blast but was sectioned under the Mental Health Act. The damaged buildings had to be demolished.

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