A grot spot block of flats will be demolished rather than revamped, a housing association has confirmed.

The sixth phase of Freebridge Community Housing’s Hillington Square revamp in Lynn had stalled for several months, with a set of properties next to the Providence Street community centre decaying by the day.

Now, Freebridge has revealed it will knock these down in a bid to “improve the immediate environment for tenants” in the surrounding area. It is located next to the historic All Saints Church.

This phase was planned to provide 65 new affordable homes, as well as new commercial units to replace the community centre.

“We are proud of the success achieved through phases one-five of the Hillington Square regeneration and the positive impact these developments have had on the local area and our tenants,” a Freebridge spokesman told the Lynn News.

“Each phase has been guided by our commitment to local housing priorities and delivering value for money.

“Following a careful review of plans for phase six, we will be adjusting to ensure the next stage continues to reflect these principles. A scheme of this scale will take time to deliver, but it remains a key part of our long-term vision.

“In the short term, the remaining block will be demolished to improve the immediate environment for our tenants.”

It remains unclear whether the community revamp has been scrapped.

Asbestos has already been removed from the building which will be knocked down.

The Lynn News revealed in August that Freebridge was reviewing whether this phase of the scheme was “deliverable”, hinting that it was going to be shelved if there were difficulties procuring funding.

The first five phases have aimed to modernise the Hillington Square accommodation which was originally built in the 1960s. The final phase was given the green light by West Norfolk Council in March 2024.

“Before any work begins, we will engage fully with tenants, residents, and key local stakeholders to outline the planned works and address any questions or concerns,” the spokesman added.

“Our vision remains clear, to shape developments that meet the needs of those who live and work in the area, creating a vibrant and sustainable community for the future.”

Hillington Square was built between 1967 and 1971 following slum clearance and comprised 320 flats and maisonettes, a community centre and a bin store.

Over the years the structures became less attractive and better known for crime and a desperate need of revitalisation.