WITH reference to Council Leader David Cartwright's comments regarding the future of the bungalows in Dolphin Road (Advertiser, June 19), the residents would like to draw the attention of your readers to the following facts.

On July 26, 1991, the tenants received letters from the council stating: "The survey carried out on the bungalows has revealed that the external frames and structure have deteriorated much further than at first thought.

"In view of this fact, and that it would be too costly for the council to remedy all the defects and improve the properties, the housing committee has reluctantly agreed that in the long term, the demolition of the bungalows and the re-development of the site is the only satisfactory solution.

"Because of the lack of financial resources, it is difficult to predict when the council can take action but I expect that it will be a further five years before development is likely to take place.

"In the meantime, of course, repairs and maintenance will continue to be carried out as far as this is possible in the light of the known defects. It is too early, at this stage, to give any information on the development timescale, but the Council will consult and discuss these matters with you as soon as it has positive information or proposals."

As a result of this letter, a number of tenants reluctantly moved out of their bungalows and into alternative properties.

However, since 1991, the council has continued to re-let the bungalows without informing new tenants of the 'future demolition'.

The bungalows are home to young families, elderly and disabled, many of whom are extremely unwell.

Mr Cartwright stated: "...residents have complained about the homes for years."

To set the record straight, NONE of the residents want their homes demolished.

Complaints have been made to the council regarding the lack of maintenance and repairs to the bungalows.

Since January, the council has refused to spend money on the bungalows until a decision on their future has been made (unless it is a repair which is life threatening).

But it has not stopped collecting rent, is still moving people into the bungalows, allowing exchanges and continuing to sell under the right-to-buy scheme.

We want to stay as council tenants and we will save our bungalows - so be prepared for a fight!

Dolphin Road Residents

Names supplied