We are an action group representing a small community of 149 tenants and 48 homeowners in Firbeck and Findon, Skelmersdale, Lancashire. Since June 22nd, 2007 we have been fighting a proposal to demolish our homes which could be certain by February, 2008. This is a proposal included in plans for regeneration of the town centre.

An improved town centre would be of benefit to us as a community but we are deeply upset that the Council and Planners are of a mind to demolish our much loved homes.

Many of the council tenants have lived on the estate for over 20 years and very much enjoy living here. The home owners have also lived here for many years but our Conservative Council are being insensitive to the fact that we are the people who matter.

There will be no properties to accommodate any of our residents. The offer for tenants is up to £4000 to give up their homes plus removal costs to go to a void existing council property. Couples and single parents will be offered 1 or 2 bedroom flats, we now have 3 bedroom homes. Homeowners will be offered market price plus 10% ( for their inconvenience of losing their property) plus removal costs, no one would be able to purchase like for like for that amount of money in Skelmersdale.

The Council insist no decision has yet been made about Firbeck and Findon but time is something we have very little of to oppose vehemently the very fact that demolition could be an option.

Our elderly and children are also distressed and we have been left since the end of June 2007 until a decision is made. Our opposition is very strong and we have taken a petition out to the town to ask for support in our opposition to demolition proposals. As the results of our petition prove the town's people agree that we should not lose our homes and we have their full support with 4,ooo+ signatures on our petition .