RESIDENTS living in high rise buildings which are to be demolished due to concerns over their long term safety have expressed their frustration that it may take two years to find them new homes.

Last month, it was revealed that Anson House and Hudson House in Thornaby, near Stockton, and Jupiter House, Milford House and Portland House in Middlesbrough are to be knocked down, resulting in the loss of 346 homes.

Housing group Thirteen said that the five blocks are all fully compliant with all relevant building and fire safety regulations, but chief executive Ian Wardle confirmed to The Northern Echo that “in time the buildings may become unsafe” and it would be “unsustainable” to carry out the work required.

However, the Echo has learnt essential work is being carried out on Anson and Hudson House in the meantime to keep the high risers up to required standards, as it may take longer than first thought to find enough housing to move all residents.

Some residents have claimed they were given a moving date of six months, but have since been told that no properties will be available in that time.

A spokesperson for Thirteen said: “Our dedicated relocation co-ordinators are currently working with residents to discuss their housing requirements and help them find a home that’s suitable for them.

“We’re trying to move people on a phased basis so we can better allocate the available properties in the fairest way. However, if someone finds a property through the CBL housing portal that is not suitable for those in the first phases then, of course, we will help them move, and they will be entitled to their home loss payment.

“This is not going to be a rushed process; residents are our priority, and we want to take our time to ensure they move to the right place, at the right time. A large number of people want to remain in Thornaby so it may take a period of time for homes there to be available.

“It is important to stress that the buildings are safe and meet all the relevant standards and requirements; as it may take up to 24 months to move everyone from these blocks, we need to take every precaution to ensure customers remain safe during that time and will continue with any works that need carrying out.”

Thirteen previously confirmed the review into their 18 high rise buildings across the Tees Valley was “not directly linked” to the Grenfell Tower disaster, which claimed the lives of 72 people last year.