COUNCILLORS have agreed to seek permission from the Government to dispose of 765 council homes in Hyndburn.

Members of the policy and resources committee voted at their last meeting to apply for Hyndburn Borough Council to be placed on the list for stock transfer. In June, the housing services committee agreed to investigate the transfer of 765 properties which were in need of vital renovation work.

Residents were informed that the council was looking at the possibility of setting up a joint venture with a housing company to take over the homes. In August, consultants Cooper and Lybrand were appointed to consider if this was financially feasible.

Failing to apply for a position on the Government's list would mean only 499 houses could be transferred to any single buyer over a period of five years.

The Government scrutinises which it is willing to allow and compiles an annual list of approved schemes.

The council must submit its application before November 8.

It is hoped that a conclusion about how to tackle the housing crises will be reached in early 1997.

Mr Edgar Bignell, director of community services, said: "We are reserving a position for the council at this stage.

"This keeps our options fully open for any implications in the next financial year.

"We will always be keeping residents and members of the public up to date in respect of these properties."

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