HOUSING bosses need to find £106 million to maintain and repair Blackburn and Darwen council homes over the next 12 years.

The huge bill has been revealed as councillors look at major plans to breathe new life into the borough's run-down estates.

More cash will also be needed to fund the backlog of existing repairs before any new works schemes begin.

The council plans to apply to the Government and outside agencies for the extra cash.

But last year housing chiefs bid for £6 million and received just £3.3 million from the Government.

A report into the state of Blackburn and Darwen council houses claims most homes in the borough are in a reasonable standard.

But the council highlights several problem areas, including Roman Road and the multi-storey flats at Mill Hill.

Plans include moves to bring in private investors to look at getting rid of run-down and unpopular flats.

Council bosses are optimistic talks with developers will result in the Mill Hill multi-storey blocks being demolished to make way for new homes. And there are also moves to get rid of the unpopular maisonette flats in the Delph Lane area near Shadsworth.

An action plan has been drawn up by the housing department which includes:

Working with private companies to improve the Roman Road estate.

Selling off problem areas and housing so it can be redeveloped by private companies and housing associations.

Attracting more investment for housing improvements from outside agencies.

Developing working partnerships with housing associations.

Mohammed Khan, the recently appointed chairman of the newly-formed housing and community committee, said: "Overall the housing stock in Blackburn and Darwen is of a reasonable standard and the borough is well equipped to provide quality accommodation for the next millennium.

"However, areas for investment have been highlighted and preliminary discussions with private developers have been very encouraging."

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