Tenants want to know more about plans to demolish 126 homes in South Shields

All said they wanted more details of South Tyneside Council’s plan to bulldoze 126 homes in the Tyne Dock area of South Shields and have, as yet, been given no details of alternative housing.

The council plan to demolish homes in Lord Nelson Street, Whitehead Street, Hudson Street and Dock Street.

All but seven properties belong to the local authority, with 24 being leased to homeless charity Places for People.

The plan was given the green light by the council’s cabinet following a recommendation to decommission and demolish.

Housing chiefs say a large number are empty long-term, and that a consistent turnover of tenants creates high repair and maintenance costs.

Full-time carer Keith Hallowell, 48, who has lived in a two-bed flat in Lord Nelson Street for four years, said: “It was a big surprise when a letter about this from the council arrived this week.

“I’m very happy and settled, and I don’t want to go but fair play to the council, which is clearly taking steps to try to improve the area.”

A 35-year-old mum-of-one, of Whitehead Street, who did not want to be named, said: “I’ve very mixed views about this. I’ve lived here for three-and-a-half years and I like it here and my son does as well, but I can see that the area is a bit run down and probably needs to change.

Places for People confirmed its affected properties were in all Dock Street.

A spokesperson said: “Our priority at this time is the people we support who will be affected by this decision.

“We are working closely with South Tyneside Council to minimise the impact of these changes.”

The council has said all owners and tenants will be supported to move into suitable alternative accommodation and will receive appropriate compensation for the loss of their home.

Demolition was recommended after an appraisal found the existing homes no longer met the needs and aspirations of residents.

In their place, new high-quality homes will be built.