Two blocks of flats on Stanhope estate have been demolished

Two blocks of flats on Stanhope estate in Ashford have already been demolished and seven more are due to go.

Now the scheme is being delayed while Ashford Borough Council looks for new Private Finance Initiative partners.

"I hope the delay is not longer than six months," said Damian Green, Conservative MP for Ashford.

The fact that we are taking control of the next step means we will be able to give residents what they want Cllr Neil Bell

People living on the estate are being offered alternative accommodation while the 410 flats are demolished and replaced with new homes.

Another 300 council houses are to be renovated and upgraded.

The Partners for Improvement in Ashford consortium included the Bank of Scotland, United Housing Solutions and Hyde Housing Association.

It was intended it should manage the housing for the next 30 years.

Funding is still coming from the government for the scheme.

"We need to know that the government will keep supporting it," said Mr Green.

'Next step'

"So far so good, but one of my jobs is to make sure that support continues."

One young mother living in the flats said she wanted them demolished as soon as possible.

"I think it will be better for the area and it will be easier for people like us who are on the top floor and who have got small children," said Kate Allen.

Ashford Borough Council said the residents would be able to have a say in choosing the new development partner.

"This is not good news but the fact that we are taking control of the next step means that we will be able to give the residents what they want," said councillor Neil Bell.