A BLOCK of rundown flats and shops in Burnley which have been a magnet for drug dealing and arsonists is finally set to be demolished.

Engineers are due to visit the parade of shops in Calderbrook Avenue, off Manchester Road, this week to prepare for the block to be pulled down, which could be as early as next week.

Residents have repeatedly complained about anti-social behaviour and have campaigned for years for the block to be bulldozed. Over a year ago the shops were targeted in an arson attack which gutted a hairdressers.

The news of the demolition has been met with joy by people on the estate.

Calderbrook Avenue resident Muriel Tew said: "This is the best news we have had for a long time and I am absolutely delighted that this demolition is going to finally take place, and I think the whole estate feels the same way."

Headteacher at nearby Christ the King RC Primary School, Harry Rowan, added: "We are very happy that these shops are going to be pulled down because they have been an attraction for youths over the years and burnt cars have been left at the back."

Coalclough with Deerplay councillor Philip Horrocks, who lives in Calderbrook Avenue, has been leading the fight to have the shops pulled down.

He said: "We have been fighting a long battle for this moment and have worked very hard." The site has outline planning permission and is likely to be used for housing.