A DEMOLITION crew will take at least a month to flatten a block of flats, hated by local residents, after a five-year campaign to bring the bulldozers in.

The workers started gutting the flats on Chapel Street, Rishton this week, although councillor June Butler estimated local residents will have to wait two more weeks until they can witness the start of the destruction to the building itself.

More time was taken up waiting for clearance to turn off the gas supply to the deserted flats, which was finally given on Monday.

The flats have acted as a magnet for vandals over recent years, with residents who lived nearby accusing gangs of youngsters of vandalism, fly tipping, noise and general nuisance.

The last occupant of the flats moved out a month ago, although most of the 16 flats had been empty for more than two years.

Rishton area council members June Butler and Ann Scaife were two of the the driving forces behind the project, which was given the green light at an area council meeting earlier this year.

Coun Butler, chairman of Rishton area council, said: "These flats have been a problem over the years and I am absolutely delighted they are going to be demolished. "

Coun Scaife said: "Ever since I became a councillor I have been fighting to get these flats demolished so it was a great day on Monday when the demolition crew moved in."

The demolition process will cost about £30,000, which will be paid for by the housing department of Hyndburn Council.

Councillors have been debating what will be built on the land currently occupied by the flats. Ideas include a community centre, play area, garages, a garden, car park and shop.

Anyone wishing to contribute to the debate on the future of the site should call Steve Watson on 01254 380121.