AN ESTATE in Willington is being considered for demolition in an attempt to wipe out a rising tide of crime and vandalism.

Wear Valley District Council is in the process of consulting tenants of the 30 flats and maisonettes in Chapel Walk about the future of the estate.

Willington councillor Brian Myers, chairman of the district council's housing committee, said although the properties had only been built in the mid- 1970s, half of them were empty and the best solution was to bulldoze them.

"It really is a blot on the landscape, and it is considered by many to be a no-go area," he said.

"They have all proved quite difficult to let, even as far back as when they were new.

"The council feels the development has no real prospects for the long-term future, and we feel demolition is the best option."

But David and Christina Williams, who are the only residents on the estate who have bought their home from the council, said they would rather stay where they are.

"We are in favour of having the rest of them pulled down because they are a mess, but I'd prefer it if they left mine up. It's a shame to pull it down when it's only been up 27 years," said Christina.

"It is our own little oasis in the middle of it, and we would just like to stay here. It's handy for the shops. We will just have to wait and see."

Susan Cunningham, who has lived in Chapel Walk for seven years, said: "It's a shame it is having to be demolished. I've been happy here, and I would like to stay, but it has become an eyesore."

Coun Myers said the site would be ideal for redevelopment, possibly in partnership with a housing association, to build two-bedroom bungalows for disabled people.

Geoff Kelly, assistant director of housing for the council, said: "There have been a lot of anti-social behaviour problems which has driven people out.

"We will be sending letters out seeking everyone's views in time for it to be considered at the housing committee meeting on November 2."

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