Lowestoft: Residents speak out over flats demolition

Artur Rzeszutek said the council would find residents temporary accommodation if they were unsuccessful in finding a new home

Residents have shared their mixed emotions over the decision to demolish their flats.

East Suffolk Council made the decision to knock down St Peter's Court in Lowestoft following a survey of the site.

According to the council, initial talks with residents revealed two-thirds either supported demolition or "would be content whatever decision was made".

Some residents say the time has come to move on, but others are "gutted".

Councillor David Beavan said families living in St Peter's Court should receive about £8,000 to help with moving costs

Jagoda, who chose not to share her last name, has lived in the tower block for six years.

"I have always enjoyed living here, especially at the beginning. Unfortunately, it has gone extremely downhill with the upkeep," she said.

St Peter's Court was Jagoda's first family home, which she shares with her partner and children.

"It's mixed feelings. You're going to miss the place, especially if it's your first. At the same time, you are a little bit excited to be able to go on to something a bit safer and better," she continued.

Residents have been given the option to search for new accommodation on HomeChoice, Lowestoft's social housing portal.

St Peter's Court had been undergoing an improvement programme but a survey revealed further repair would be too costly

Artur Rzeszutek has lived in his own flat for four years but grew up with friends in the building.

He has just spent £1,000 renovating the floors and explained "you cannot move that from house to house".

Mr Rzeszutek believed the council should offer to rent removal vans for families, especially vulnerable residents.

"I've got next door neighbours who are literally in their 70s and 80s. They don't have anyone who can help them move out, so hopefully at least those will get help," he said.

Another resident, who wished not to be named, said she was "gutted".

"Why carry on the work if they're just going to knock it down anyway?" she said.

The families at St Peter's Court have been given 12 months to find new housing, before demolition work begins.

Councillor David Beavan said families living in St Peter's Court should receive about £8,000 to help with moving costs.