MY street has 73 houses, of which two have been empty and neglected, one for over ten years.

The two properties tend to let down the area and reduce standards, and this is in a Conservation Area too.

I wrote to my councillor but despite her attempts with Darlington housing department no progress was made.

If my street is typical it means there could be up to a thousand empty houses in Darlington.

This is a shocking figure especially when we read that homelessness is such a big problem, so worrying when we have not reached the coldest time of the year yet.

I have outlined a problem and a possible solution.

Can Darlington Council work out with the landlords the details of solving it.

Is compulsory purchase feasible for example?

We cannot be the only town in this position.

Malcolm Dunstone, Darlington