A BLOCK of 1960s flats in the heart of Bacup are to be demolished.

The unpopular three-storey block of 12 flats, known as Tong House, in South Street, are to be cleared and the area landscaped.

The council-owned decaying flats are an eye-sore for people living in the area and with the removal of the flats, the space will create an open area which will be seeded to match the grass surrounding the building.

The 40-year-old flats, were intended to be let to middle aged or elderly residents, but Tong House is on three floors and has no lift.

The block requires significant investment, to the tune of £270,000 to refurbish it. Whitewell councillor, David Easton said the flats are beyond repair: "They couldn't be let out to anybody because of the state they are in.

"They need a lot of work doing to them which wouldn't prove to be cost- effective. They have also been having continuous problems with the roof for some time.

"There were only about three people actually living in the flats and they were all given the opportunity to move somewhere of their choice.

"They are an eye-sore, so I don't think there is any other option than to demolish them."

Director of Community Services with Rossendale Council , David Taylor said: "The council decided not to invest in the building and all the seven tenants currently living there have been re-housed."