RESIDENTS on a run-down Thornaby estate say they have been left in the dark about whether they will be allowed to live in revamped homes.

About 500 homes on the Mandale Estate are to bulldozed after decades of decay and neglect.

But residents are now demanding reassurances that they will be allowed to return to the estate once new homes have been built.

Council tenants say that with some of the new homes set aside for private sale, they will be forced off the estate.

More than 100 residents have signed a petition asking for reassurances from Stockton Borough Council.

Freda Metcalfe, who lives in Lanehouse Road, said it would not just be the houses that will be destroyed.

She said: "Our sense of community, which is very strong on this estate, will be destroyed if some of us cannot get back on to the estate.

"We all know each other and have a wide support network, but this will go forever if some of council tenants are forced to leave.

"We understand that only 200 out of 500 new houses will be for tenants, and with most of the current 500 houses being rented, that means many will lose out and have to live elsewhere.

"Stockton council has told us they cannot guarantee we can return to the estate.

"Don't get me wrong, the new houses are absolutely fantastic. We just need to know that we will be allowed to live in them."

In November 2001, consultants were appointed by the council to carry out a study into the future of Mandale.

Now complete, the first phase of demolition is due to start in November.

Ian Thompson, head of regeneration and economic development at Stockton Borough Council, said no policy for letting the new homes has been agreed yet.

He said: "We are aware that some people are concerned they might not be able to return to the area, as fewer rented homes will be available.

"This will depend entirely on how many wish to return and how many do not.

"We urge people not to listen to rumours. Instead, the full facts are available through one-to-one surgeries which have been organised at the Loftus Road advice centre."

To arrange an appointment, call (01642) 608316.