ALL I can say after reading the article 'How Phoenix will help area rise up,' about the regeneration scheme for the Lower Antley area of Accrington (LET, January 12) is: What a lot of flannel!
The local authority's indifference and neglect of this area has brought about the downfall of a once-decent part of Accrington.
We are being steamrollered into accepting the cheapest option available -- demolish and rebuild with council houses.
It's a pity I wasn't told this 10 years ago when I moved here. Then, the local authority welcomed me with open arms.
Buy a house here sir? Certainly sir. Local grant? Yes sir -- within three years, sir.
So, you spend your money and you make a go of it. Before you know it, things are turning sour -- more empty houses, vandalism, and arson. The council sit back until even they can't sit back any more and sell out to outside contractors. Where from? Salford.
I notice that coaches will take people from this area to see estates in Salford. I came from there, running as fast as I could, after being the victim of a severe arson attack. These coaches won't go after dark (like many of the buses there) -- it's far too dangerous.
I am bombarded with literature from this Salford firm. I am promised that they are in a position to give me a price for my home. Really? No -- I checked with the local authority. They, in turn, give me a price. Not once am I asked what I paid, or how much I owe. Perhaps that doesn't matter.
No price today -- 'We'll get back to you on that one.' Until I get a price, I can't get another mortgage. If I'm left with a shortfall, I can't get another mortgage.
It's not important that over the last 10 years we have scrimped and saved to modernise and improve our home, minus a grant.
It's not important that we stand to lose our home and be thousands of pounds in debt.
I don't suppose it's important to the few who make money from all of this, that we'd prefer the authority to help us improve the existing houses and area.
And I don't think it's important that decent people will ultimately be driven away, like many have already in the wastes of Salford.
KEVIN SAVAGE, Lonsdale Street, Accrington.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article