Sandwell's housing boss has spoken of his delight at giving the go-ahead for the external refurbishment of four high-rise blocks in West Bromwich.

The project is part of the council's new £490 million investment programme which he recently announced.

The blocks - Beaconview, Broome, Stanton and Sheapcoate Houses - are situated on the Charlemont Farm Estate.

Councillor Simon Hackett, Sandwell Council's cabinet member for housing, met with the chairs of two local tenants and residents associations, councillors and officers from the council on site, to mark the start of the improvement process.

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The improvements will include:

•replacement windows and doors

•new entrances

•insulated cladding to improve thermal efficiency and appearance

•roof replacement redecoration of communal areas

•lift and environmental improvement including parking and landscaping

They are expected to get under way next summer, following tight timescales for the delivery of detailed design plans and consultation with tenants and residents.

The contract for the refurbishment work is expected to go out to tender in early 2013.

Councillor Hackett said: "This is excellent news for the tenants who have been waiting a number of years for these improvements and particularly for the two tenants and residents associations who have been working hard to encourage support and agreement for these eagerly awaited works to be approved."

(CD/GK)