Flats to be demolished

Two blocks of council flats in Stoke-on-Trent dating back to the 1950s are set to be demolished, after being given the "lowest grade" in a review of the local authority's housing.

Bell House and Barker House, in Blurton, contain 60 bedsit-style flats. But just one tenant remains and the city council has agreed terms to buy the remaining leasehold properties.

A report said demolishing the blocks would reduce potential security problems and holding costs cabinet members are to make a decision tomorrow.