YOUR report "Repairs budget in the red" (LET, August 16) did nothing to enable the West End Estates Management Board to improve the community they serve. It only contributes to the negative image the area has been given, especially by the media.

The problems in the West End clearly show that the investment in bricks and mortar does not overcome the deep-seated social and economic issues specific to south west Burnley.

But social and economic investment by the Government is now forthcoming, following successful bids by the council.

However, the results of this investment will take years to show visible benefits in the community.

On August 19, the new tenancy agreement came into effect to clarify the tenants' and council's responsibilities, and to allow the council to take legal action against tenants who break their agreement. The council is shortly to sign a historic agreement with the police called "Safer Estates", which will formalise links between the two organisations to work together to reduce crime and nuisance in the borough as a whole.

In response to some of the points raised in the article, firstly, with the council predicting an overspend, the board presented a report to the housing committee containing suggestions for the board to remain within budget.

At this stage, none of the proposals has been adopted. They require detailed discussion to consider their ramifications. The board would also like to point out that its area of responsibility does not cover the Barclay Hills estate.

With regard to empty houses, a series of additional security measures are being developed along with the dedicated staff working to allocate properties, linked with accompanied viewings, assistance from the area's caretaker, new tenancy visits and a "welcome pack" issued to all new tenants which has been put together by the board.

SOPHIE BRIGDEN, Secretary, West End Estates Management Board, Burnley.

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