THE FUTURE of derelict houses in an Accrington street will be decided by a public inquiry.

Nearby residents have complained to Hyndburn Council about five empty homes in Craven Street which they say have been vandalised and are spoiling the rest of the street.

The council applied for a compulsory purchase order with a view to passing the privately-owned homes to a housing association for renovation.

But a public inquiry, chaired by a government-appointed inspector, was made necessary when one of the owners objected to the council buying their property.

Council urban renewal manager Julian Hickinbottom said the houses were spoiling the rest of the street.

He said: "It is quite a respectable little street but these properties have been vandalised and there is rubbish in the back yards."

The council hopes to sell the houses to the Salford Community Housing Association if they are granted the purchase order by the Government.

Coun Cliff Westell, housing chairman for Hyndburn Council, said: "We sincerely hope that a public inquiry will trigger the renewal of these houses and put an end to residents' understandable concerns."

The inquiry will take place at Hyndburn Council's offices in Eagle Street, Accrington, on May 25. The council hopes to have a final decision from the Government within six months and says the properties could be restored by next spring if the purchase is allowed.

People who wish to tell the Government inspector their views can either attend the inquiry or write to: Planning Section, Government Office North West, Sunley Tower, Piccadilly Plaza, Manchester M1 4BE.

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