PLANS for a multi-million pound regeneration of a run-down Teesside housing estate are to be discussed by councillors tomorrow.

In November 2001, consultants were appointed by Stockton Borough Council to carry out a study into the future of Mandale, Thornaby.

The study was completed earlier this year and it was proposed to demolish 578 homes, and redevelop the area in partnership with private developers and a registered social landlord, Nomad Housing group. The total investment is likely to exceed £20m.

Consultation has been carried out in an effort to inform residents of the plans and seek their views about how the neighbourhood should be developed. A total of 78 per cent of residents supported the scheme, eight per cent were against it, and 14 per cent were undecided.

Concerns have also been raised by residents who feel they will not be able to return to the area once the redevelopment is complete.

A report to the meeting said: "On a redevelopment of this scale, some objections are inevitable, but it is important to focus on the long-term aims of the redevelopment.

"In order to make the process as smooth as possible for the residents, all individual circumstances will be considered and dealt with sympathetically and reasonably.

"Every effort will be made to relocate residents as near to places of choice as possible with sensitivity to personal issues such as schooling.

"All the concerns of the residents raised through the consultation are being fed into the development of the scheme to bring about the best possible solutions to the issues raised."

It is thought the redevelopment could take up to ten years to complete and all residents would be given a comprehensive relocation and compensation package.

If approval is granted, the next step is to begin rehousing residents. The project will go out to tender for a private developer, with a start on site expected next August.

Councillor Martyn Ingram, cabinet member for housing and community safety, said: "This scheme represents enormous investment in the community, not just for today's residents, but for future generations.