CONCERNS have been expressed after residents were told that they had just days to clear possessions out of their garages before they would be bulldozed.

Golden Gates Housing Trust is planning to demolish garages on Vulcan Close and Valiant Close in Padgate which it says are 'a blight' on the area due to their poor condition.

But Poulton-with-Fearnhead Parish Council has expressed 'deep concerns' after the trust told residents that they needed to remove their belongings from the garages within days.

In a letter to Golden Gates, seen by the Warrington Guardian, the parish council said: "Many residents have held these garages for a number of years and the peremptory way they have been dealt with is not in the best manner of customer relations.

"Only to give them a few days notice to remove cars and belongings is appalling.

"There has been no consultation, only a draconian stance by your association.

"Surely some form of consultation should have taken place."

Golden Gates Housing Trust has now put its plans to demolish the garages on hold in order to complete further consultations with residents.

The trust also apologised for its communication over the issue.

A spokesman for the social housing provider said: "Golden Gates has carried out a review of all of garage sites across Warrington.

"These particular garages are in poor condition and are considered a blight, therefore a recommendation was made to demolish them.

"Affected customers received notice of these intentions in accordance with the notice period set out in the garage tenancy agreement.

"We accept, however, that communications could have been handled in a more timely and sensitive manner and regret any distress caused.

"Since the initial letter was sent out, we have communicated on an individual level with affected customers who have raised concerns and intend to put our plans on hold for these sites whilst we carry out a more detailed engagement exercise."