TENANTS of Golden Gates Housing Trust (GGHT) have hit out at compensation costs being dished out by the housing authority to residents of Peninsula House.

GGHT has approved the sale of the block, which contains a mixture of GGHT and leaseholder owned flats, to a private owner, with re-housing for residents expected to be complete by the end of March.

As part of the re-housing process, all GGHT tenants are eligible for a statutory 'home loss' payment and have been offered a removal and disturbance package to cover the cost of carpets, removals and other associated costs.

Although GGHT is not releasing the compensation costs, one resident, who does not wish to be named, was believed to have been offered £5000 after living in the block for 12 months.

The move has been criticised by others in the town after claims the trust is 'not doing enough' to help.

One such resident, Leah Hillman, claims the housing authority is neglecting problems such as damp, broken lights and general maintenance at her property, on Grasmere Avenue, Orford, in favour of other matters such as the compensation process for Peninsula House.

"I am hoping to get moved out of my property but I have got no hope for it - they are not focusing on my problems," she said.

"I keep trying to get re-homed as that is what I want for my family but I am not getting anywhere with it and just not really sure what to do anymore."

GGHT has defended the compensation process and say it will continue to manage the block and provide on-site security until the sale is completed.

A spokesman added: "This is a statutory legal requirement that GGHT has to pay as a landlord.

"The GGHT Board subsequently approved the sale of the block to a private owner provided that the new owner commits to a significant level of investment in the building, engages with the local community, works in partnership with GGHT in relation to the adjoining estate with regards to environmental improvements, and commits to creating employment and training opportunities.

"Companies interested in buying Peninsula House are currently being evaluated to ensure that they meet the above commitments."

Any resulting sale will also allow the leaseholders living in the property to remain at Peninsula House.