THE demolition of derelict houses on a troubled council estate is in its final stages.

Only one and a half streets are left standing in Grangetown, Middlesbrough, after Redcar and Cleveland Council bought the property back from residents.

Paul Tuffs, chairman of Grangetown Residents' Association, has been fighting for many months to get derelict houses demolished.

The area has been targeted by youths, who have set fire to empty homes and vandalised properties waiting to be demolished.

The council's cabinet member for housing and neighbourhood renewal, Chris Abbott, said: "I appreciate it has been hard for residents in surrounding areas who have had to deal with youths and anti-social behaviour, but we're doing our best.

"It has been a drawn-out process due to a number of residents holding out for more money."

Redcar MP Vera Baird has received complaints from residents about the "intolerable" conditions on the estate.

She said: "There are problems with fires on a nightly basis. I have written to Councillor Chris Abbot to press for a completion date."

The demolition of Alexander Road was completed earlier this week, leaving Burnsville Road and half of Granville Road standing.

The work is due to be completed by next month.