THE future of four 200-year-old cottages hangs in the balance after a decision on their fate was deferred.

Councillors asked owners Hayes Trust for more information on plans for Simpson's Cottages in Hayes.

Hayes Trust is looking to demolish the cottages and replace them with a terrace of three houses.

Hayes Cllr Anne Manning said: "We have to be entirely satisfied what will replace the cottages will be of an exceptional standard. Their scheme needs some fine tuning."

The listed cottages in Five Elms Road house three people, including 90-year-old Irene Alexander who told the News Shopper last week she does not want to move.

Around 20 residents attended a council meeting last Thursday to lobby the council to halt the proposed demolition. Campaigner Tony Folan said: "We will keep on fighting to ensure the cottages are saved.

"Hayes Trust should refurbish the cottages, not demolish them, but we have had a bit of a result.

"The councillors were very reasonable about it all."

Planning officers recommended councillors give the go-ahead for the site to be bulldozed.

Hayes Trust chairman Rev Peter Thomas has said the cottages are dilapidated and not suitable for the elderly or needy in Hayes.

A council spokesman said if the Trust provides the information to council quickly, their proposal could be considered in three weeks time.

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