HUNDREDS of newsletters have been distributed to homes and businesses in a problem-hit area of Nelson as part of an ambitious scheme to improve life for residents.

Pendle Council will carry out a survey of Nelson West, covering parts of Whitefield and Bradley wards, as part of a Neighbourhood Renewal Assessment to determine the best ways of boosting the area.

A four-page newsletter detailing the proposals has been posted through doors in the area.

It promises residents will be kept in touch and given the chance to have their say on any improvements.

Consultants working for the council will start a housing survey on December 16, visiting homes to check the condition of properties in the area.

Homes will be chosen at random but will only be surveyed with the permission of the householder.

People have been warned not to let anyone into their homes unless they are certain of their identity. Surveyors will carry identity cards.

Questionnaires will be distributed to gather residents' opinions on the area and its problems.

Nelson West suffers some of the worst unemployment in East Lancashire, particularly among young Asians.

It has a high proportion of old terraced homes which need repairs and problems with litter and crime.

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