TOWN hall bosses are set to approve the compulsory purchase of 133 houses in the Pimhole area of Bury.

They say that, despite objections from some residents, it is necessary to ensure the success of the wider £11 million regeneration scheme.

Members of the council's ruling executive will be asked tomorrow to give the green light to clear the ageing terraces.

Of the 133 properties, the council has already bought 59 and has reached agreement to buy a further 29.

Councillor John Byrne, executive member for environment and transport, agreed that some people would prefer renovation rather than demolition of their homes. But a number of owners, he said, were holding out for a better price, although the council was offering market values, as well as disturbance compensation.

"In a project of this scale and investment, it is simply not feasible to "pepperpot" new homes next to old ones in a single street," he said.

"We are talking about creating a sustainable community with some new affordable homes which will increase confidence and thus investment in the area."