A DOUBLE boost aimed at breathing new life into areas of run-down council homes in Blackburn is set to be agreed by housing bosses.

More than 100 homes on Blackburn's Roman Road could soon be demolished at a cost of £200,000 to "stem the tide of decline" on the estate.

And Salford Housing Association is in talks with the council over saving the Larkhill high rise flats, with a scheme that will include extensive refurbishment and the installation of CCTV.

The Roman Road plan, which has already been discussed with residents, would mean 59 families being moved to homes elsewhere on the estate, although they would be offered compensation.

A report by housing officer Chris Gibbins says: "It is hoped that demolition will stem the tide of decline on the estate.

"The aim is to reduce the number of empty properties which are having a detrimental effect on the life of the residents and the attractiveness of the estate.

"There is a vibrant community on the estate who are committed to its long term future These proposals attempt to provide this community with some long term stability while reducing the worst aspects of the area."

Blackburn with Darwen councillors are to be asked to give their approval to a plan to demolish houses from 1 to 60 Cockermouth Close, 2-41 St Bees Close, 26-32 and 92-112 Fishmoor Drive, 15-29 Seascale Close, 1-47 Levens Close and 2-45 Silloth Close.

The whole of Maryport Close is already empty and about to be demolished.

Tuesday's meeting of Blackburn with Darwen Council's housing committee will also be told that the Salford Housing Association is hoping to work with the council to regenerate the flats in Larkhill.

They are the only high rises which the council has committed itself to retaining - the empty Mill Hill and Queen's Park flats will be demolished when the authority can find a company to tackle the work.

One block of Larkhill flats, Ribble House, will be demolished.

The two remaining blocks will be linked by a building and enclosed glazed corridors, with a 24 hour concierge service also provided.

Plans to retain Larkhill have been dogged with problems, with bids for government money rejected and talks with the Northern Counties Housing Association unsuccessful.

Tenants have raised concerns about rents and future management and lettings policies.

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