SEVERAL homes in Newton Aycliffe have been scheduled for demolition in the latest phase of a clearance programme.

The work is part of Sedgefield Borough Council's strategy to reduce the high number of empty properties it owns.

Council officers have identified 40 maisonettes in Askrigg Close, Bakewell Place, Fox Place, Airton Place, Reeth Place, Scott Place, Brockett Close and Brockwell Close as suitable for demolition.

Only eight of the condemned properties are occupied and alternative accommodation will be provided for those affected.

The cost of carrying out the demolitions has been estimated at £180,000, plus £48,000 home loss payments for the tenants who need relocating.

A report to the council's cabinet meeting on Thursday says consultation has taken place with the tenants and generally the decision to demolish the blocks is supported.

The report recommends that £10,000 is set aside for demolition of empty council garages. The empty property strategy also includes selling council houses and conversion of bedsit units in sheltered accommodation. The aim is to reduce long-term void numbers by a minimum of 100 units this year.

Last year's strategy, once completed, will have resulted in 63 demolitions and 30 one-off sales, plus the demolition of 79 garages.