Triple tower block demolition plan to be submitted
LDRSPlans to demolish a city's three tower blocks are to be submitted as a housing firm says only one resident still needs to be rehoused.
The Lambton, Londonderry and Lumley Towers, or 3Ls, in Sunderland's East End have been earmarked for demolition by housing association Gentoo as part of a drive to avoid large repair costs.
Structural investigations started on the 3Ls'in November 2023, with Gentoo deciding in August last year to take the demolition option at a cost of £2.6m per tower.
The company confirmed on Tuesday that just one resident had not yet found a suitable new home and was being supported to move "when the time is right for them".
Gentoo previously said alternative strengthening work would cost about £15m per building, along with additional changes and fire safety requirements costing £5m.
Marc Edwards, executive director of property, said: "At present, from the 214 flats within the three blocks, we only have one customer that has not yet found a suitable new home."
The company expects an application for demolition to be submitted later this month.
Councillors have previously quizzed Gentoo bosses on plans for the future of the 3Ls site post-demolition.
Follow BBC Sunderland on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram and listen on BBC Sounds.