Belvoir flats should not be demolished

I WAS reading last week about the Housing Executive considering proposals to demolish the high-rise flats in Belfast (News, January 4).

I have lived in Belvoir Park for many years and well-recall the Belvoir flats being built. In my estimation, since their refurbishment and the installation of security measures, they appear to be in better condition now than ever.

I know, and have known, many residents of the flats over the years, and was always impressed by the satisfaction they expressed with the quality of the homes.

Apparently, there are currently around 10,000 households on housing waiting lists across Belfast, with a further 7,000 in “housing stress”.

I find it incredible that it could make any sense, either economically or socially, to flatten perfectly serviceable housing.

The Housing Executive should be aware of the cost that such measures would have, not just to the public purse but, importantly, the impact on the residents who call these flats home.

TOM GIRVAN Belfast