COUNCIL flats and houses for elderly people are to be improved because some are proving hard to let.

Ribble Valley Council's housing committee agreed a scheme that will have some of its 600 homes for elderly people made more attractive.

The plan will include regular social events at sheltered housing schemes, the "breaking up" of long corridors with partitions and doors, improved car parking, a "more relaxed" attitude to pets and the payment of relocation costs.

Councillors heard that the standard of elderly accommodation in the borough was "very high," but that there had been problems in letting some flats.

Chief executive Dave Morris told the meeting: "Although there are not major difficulties in letting some of the homes, we must not be complacent.

"We must examine very closely initiatives that will make the homes more attractive and beneficial to elderly residents." The list of improvements was drawn up in consultation with wardens and residents at council accommodation.

Now a final bill has been put on the work but the chief executive added: "It will be necessary for the committee to have estimated costs before making a final decision."

Chairman Margaret Sutcliffe said some authorities were experiencing difficulties in letting elderly accommodation.

She said: "People's aspirations have changed.

"They want space for their cars and separate bedrooms.

"We are trying to look ahead so that we are not faced with a situation in the future where we have accommodation that is half empty.

"We are very pleased with the suggestions that have been put forward and, as far as possible, will be acting on them."

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