Stockton Council has started consultation with people living nearby on its masterplan for the 'W's' area of the Hardwick estate.

More than 230 houses have been demolished since 2001 and the plans mean around 370 more could follow.

Other strands are new housing, a retirement village for the elderly, a �3m primary school and landscaping and environmental improvements.

Masterplan

The plan will mean run-down houses being demolished and replaced.

"This is the biggest housing regeneration project ever undertaken in Stockton and it is crucial that we get it right from the start," said Martyn Ingram, council cabinet member for housing and community safety.

Residents' representatives, councillors and Endeavour Housing Association have all been involved in putting the Masterplan together.

Mr Ingram said: "Inevitably some people will have put a great deal of love and effort into their homes and would prefer not to move - we fully understand that.

Huge benefits

"We have to look at the bigger picture, though, balancing all these views with the need to ensure a deliverable and sustainable high-quality development.

"This project promises to bring huge benefits for local people."

But some people have criticised the consultation process, saying rebuilding is taking too long and the council is not listening to what they want.

One man said: "You ask them one to one and they can't tell you anything. They just say maybe, proposals and all this, that and the other."

The council's cabinet will be asked to approve the plans in October.