DEMOLITION of Preston's crumbling Moor Lane flats could be an option, according to council housing chiefs.

An independent surveyor's report is due to be concluded this week and a number of recommendations -- which could include the possibility of pulling the three 40-year-old tower blocks down -- will be put forward to council members for consideration early next week.

A council spokesperson said: "We are waiting for the engineer's report to come back which will look at options for the future of the flats and the best way forward for the number of tenants who had to be evacuated."

More than 400 tenants at three multi-storey blocks on Moor Lane were evacuated last Thursday (March 22) after structural engineers found evidence of crumbling masonry.

The British Red Cross, the RSPCA and Lancashire's social services were all on hand on Thursday as Preston's All Saints' church hall, Elizabeth Street, was turned in to a shelter point for hundreds of tenants.

Gordon Chapman, from Lancashire's Red Cross emergency response team, said: "We worked closely with the local social services department in dealing with this emergency.

"The BRCS is always primed and ready to help people in crisis."

The council were forced to issue Court Orders last Friday after three occupants refused to move.

They have now co-operated with housing bosses and peacefully moved out late on Friday evening.

Temporary accommodation is continuing to be found throughout Preston, but town hall bosses claim that due to the short supply, residents are being offered lodgings in neighbouring towns and areas.

In the last few days, a number of families have been contacted by solicitors, encouraging them to sue Preston council.

Councillor Ian Hall, leader of Preston council, said: "I am disappointed about the way in which these companies are operating.

"Our priority is to make sure the residents have safe and warm temporary accommodation and the involvement of outside bodies is not helping with this process."

A number of residents' meetings are being planned in the next few days in a bid to gauge feelings towards the flats.

A special helpline -- (01772) 906825 -- has also been set up to assist tenants with problems.

Council leader Ian Hall added: "Residents' views are vital and we are consulting with them on how best to move forward.

"The welfare of residents is our top priority.

"We have pulled out all the stops with council staff working day and night.

"As well as accommodation, we are helping residents with weekly allowances and other issues such as transport.

"The whole council is working together to deal with the situation.

"The staff are doing a marvellous job in difficult circumstances and I would like to thank them them for their hard work and dedication."

Pictured is one of the 40-year-old Moor Lane flats.