MIDDLESBROUGH must press ahead with major changes to housing if the town is to continue to progress, according to the town's mayor.

In a New Year message to residents living in the older housing area, Ray Mallon says that this year saw much progress in key projects in the town centre.

He believes schemes such as the regeneration of Middlehaven, the new public square and Mima art gallery in the heart of the town are delivering a significant change of image.

"There is much to be positive about, but still much to do.

"Top of the list is ensuring that the residents of Middlesbrough benefit from the progress that is taking place," he said.

"While it is important to see the whole picture when considering the merits of our plans, I do not minimise for one second the concern these plans will have brought about to those people living in houses earmarked for demolition.

"Demolition is crucial if we are to address the chronic problems facing certain parts of the town."

The mayor describes as "ridiculous" the suggestion that the demolition is linked in any way to Middlesbrough's bid to host a regional casino.

"I support Middlesbrough's bid for a regional casino because it would bring 2,000 jobs to the town and boost the local economy by £150m a year.

"Just as important, it would lead to the building of a first-class hotel, performance arena, restaurants and other developments.

"But it would be totally inappropriate for such a casino to be built in the middle of a residential area. That will not happen."