PLANS to tackle problems blighting neighbourhoods in Hartlepool are to be discussed, with residents urged to have their say.

Three community exhibitions have been arranged to enable people to give their views on the findings of a Hartlepool Borough Council-commissioned housing study covering the Dyke House and Jackson wards, an area known as North Central Hartlepool.

Issues facing the area include problems caused by some private landlords and their tenants, falling house prices and increasing numbers of empty properties.

The North Central Hartlepool Regeneration Steering Group has been set up to oversee the project, and some residents have already played a significant role in producing a report outlining the key findings of the housing study and listing options to improve the situation.

However, it is hoped others will get involved.

Councillor Moss Boddy, chairman of the steering group, said: "It is vital whatever we do in this area reflects the needs and aspirations of the people who live there.

"That is why we hope residents will attend one of the community exhibitions and make their views known."

The first of the events will be taking place in the residents' resource room in Chatham House, Chatham Road, today.

The second will be held on Monday at the Hartlepool Supporters' Club, in Sandringham Road, and the third is next Tuesday, at the Rovers Quoit Club, in Raby Road.

All three will be held from 10am to 7pm.

Residents are also urged to look out for a newsletter giving more details.

Copies are being delivered free to more than 3,000 homes in the area.