Improvements begin on Bedworth's oldest council flats

Work has begun on much-needed improvements to one of the first blocks of council-owned flats to be built in the borough.



Old garages that have become an eyesore and a target for arsonists are being removed from Cadman Close in Bedworth.

The demolition of the sheds is the first step in a long-awaited programme to make the area much more attractive.

Councillor Bill Hancox, who represents the flat dwellers on the borough council, said: “As well as removing the sheds, canopies are to be removed, stairwells painted, new UPVC doors put in and the whole block is to be rendered.”

But he accepted that the work has been needed for some time: “The flats are tucked away off Chapel Street and they have been neglected so it’s good news that these improvements are to be made,” he said.

Residents have complained about the derelict garages which have become a safety hazard with repeated arson attacks.

They have also been targeted by vandals and space around them used as a dumping ground for rubbish and fly-tippers.

Bedworth Cllr Tony Lloyd, cabinet member for housing at the Town Hall, said: “These sheds have been set alight on numerous occasions in recent months and have become a safety hazard for the residents of the flats, many of whom have young children.

“They have become an eyesore which has been made worse by the rubbish which has been illegally dumped there.”

Cllr Lloyd added: “By removing the sheds and clearing the waste we will be making the area safer and also making it a far more attractive place to live.

The flat dwellers are to be consulted over the future use of the garages site: “We intend to ask residents how they think we should improve the land once the sheds have been completely demolished,” said Cllr Lloyd.

Work on removing the garages and clearing the land is expected to take around a week and then improvements to the flats should begin.