HOUSEHOLDERS are seeking compensation from high street giants, Marks and Spencer, following claims that construction work has caused structural damage to their homes.

A number of residents in Highfield Road, situated behind the plush new development in Prestwich, which includes a M&S neighbourhood food store and Carpet Right, have written to the company complaining of mysterious cracks that have appeared in the walls of their houses.

They claim the problems arose during extensive building work undertaken by M&S last year.

At the time of the construction some concerns were raised about noise and disruption caused by the development and passed on to MP Ivan Lewis, but residents are claiming longer-lasting effects.

Speaking at a public meeting last week to discuss the new Richardson's development just a few hundred yards away from Highfield Road, one woman claimed the building work had driven a family away from their home.

She said: "The first house in Highfield Road has a huge crack in it because of the development. The family had to move out because of the problems and they haven't come back."

It is understood the family rented the house from a private landlord.

Highfield Road resident, Mr Kieron Garry, whose house has also suffered damage, said: "I wouldn't be surprised if the reason they moved out was because of what happened. The back garden wall just collapsed while the development was going on and then cracks started to appear in the brickwork of the house."

His neighbour, who did not wish to be named, said the noise and vibration endured during the development was "terrible".

He said "The whole house shook. It was awful. We had an extension built three years ago and already cracks have started to appear in the plaster."

Mr Garry said he believed the bulk of the damage was caused while contractors were sheet piling or pile driving on the site.

Slates were dislodged from his roof which damaged a skylight and the house now bears a number of cracks in the internal walls.

He said: "The slates damaged flashing around the skylight and we have had leaks as a result. Our floor level has dropped and the walls have dropped causing the wallpaper to split and crease. Cracks have opened up and it is up to me to sort all this out."

Mr Garry, an engineer, added: "When the construction work started I complained about the noise and disruption. There was a lot of trouble with the contractors parking their cars in Highfield Road but M&S did not seem to bother. I do not expect a company like that to behave how they did."

Mr Garry has written to M&S asking for an independent survey to assess the full extent of the damage and says the least they can do is compensate by funding a redecoration of the house, spoiled by the work.

"Their building work has caused it and I want it putting right. For the cosmetic damage, at least, I would expect M&S to foot the bill," he added.

A spokesman for Marks and Spencer said she could not discuss specific details but added: "We are in contact with the people and we are intending to resolve the situation with those concerned. We will address their concerns."

Mr Lewis said he was more than willing to meet with residents and raise concerns with the company on their behalf.