Preston tower blocks to be bulldozed and residents rehoused in the wake of Grenfell

The blocks - Richmond House, Carlisle House and Lincoln House in the Avenham area of the city - have been under threat since cladding had to be removed following the Grenfell fire.

Owners Onward Homes say they have consulted with tenants over the past five months and have now decided to knock them down and replace them with modern homes.

But not all residents will be guaranteed one of the new properties, meaning Preston Council will be asked to give them priority when it comes to rehousing.

"The tower blocks require significant investment to ensure the properties reflect modern housing requirements and the needs of customers in the future," said Sandy Livingstone, executive director for property at Onward.

"Whilst refurbishment would improve the buildings in the short-term, the tower blocks would still not provide the same standards as a new build home. Demolition is a more suitable long-term solution that will provide new, improved homes that are a better reflection of local housing needs.

"We understand that residents will have lots of questions about next steps and we are here to help them through every step of the rehousing process. Our dedicated teams will speak to each household on an individual basis to understand their needs and help them to find a new home.”

Onward announced in February they were considering the future of the high rise blocks which were all built in the 1960s.

Each one comprises 60 flats and all the families living there were asked for their views before a final decision was made.

In a statement issued today the company says it has now decided that demolition is the "best option" because they could not be brought up to the required standard.

"After careful consideration of various factors, a decision has been made to proceed with the preferred option to demolish the tower blocks, which provides a more suitable long-term solution," said Onward.

"Having been built in the 1960s, the tower blocks require major improvements and whilst refurbishment would improve the flats even with significant investment these would not match new build standards.

"On the other hand, demolition and replacement with new homes will enable the delivery of a mix of modern homes that better reflect to local housing needs."

Richmond House will be the first to be knocked down before moving on the Carlisle and Lincoln.

The company says: "By phasing the rehousing process, Onward will be able to manage this more smoothly and ensure everyone gets fair access to other affordable housing that is available in the area.

"Onward’s dedicated teams will now speak to households on an individual basis to guide them through each stage of the rehousing process to ensure that this is as smooth as possible.

"A comprehensive package of support will be provided to residents which will include guidance around finding a new home and bidding on properties, compensation and practical help around packing up and moving belongings."