KOSOVAR refugees are living it up in newly refurbished properties while the homes of local residents remain dilapidated and badly maintained.

The situation has created an 'air of unease' on central Preston's housing estates, according to some residents who are becoming increasingly hostile to their new neighbours.

One woman, who asked to remain nameless, said: "Many of us are upset that we have been forced to wait for 20 years for the most basic repairs to be carried out.

"Why should they be given better homes than us when we pay to live here and support the local area?" she complained.

"Our houses are crumbling, without double glazing and central heating." she said: "Although it shouldn't happen, people are becoming envious towards the Kosovans and that feeling has, in the past, always meant trouble."

Several Kosovar families moved into Deepdale after being transferred from Calderstones, in the Ribble Valley, which has been their home since they fled war-torn Kosovo.

They will be living in the area for a year.

Deepdale councillor Terry Cartwright said he was aware of the problem, he said: "I can appreciate the residents' feelings, but the council has been given £30,000 to create homes for the Kosovans.

"We can't just take the money and not let them in. I have heard these feelings being aired and I only hope they don't come to anything.

"Overall I think there has been warm welcome for the refugees."

John Cameron, a senior housing officer at Preston Borough Council said: "Whenever a property becomes available, it is repaired to a set standard.

"We haven't given anyone preferential treatment, but have supplied houses which meet the needs of each family."

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