HOUSING chiefs are coming under renewed pressure to finally pull down eyesore rundown flats in Greenock which have have become a magnet for yobs and criminal behaviour.

Residents have complained bitterly for a number of years about the empty blocks in Neil Street and had hoped they would be demolished two years ago, as they attract anti-social behaviour.

But ward councillor Tommy McVey says that despite his ongoing efforts he can't get any clarity from River Clyde Homes on the future of the 80 flats, which have been lying empty for a long time.

Last year we reported how the demolition had been held up because a property developer had shown a last minute interest.

Councillor Tommy McVey said: "This situation is just going on and on, I can't get any straight answers from River Clyde Homes.

"We were told a couple of years ago they were in the process of getting them demolished.

"But they are still here and there's no sign of when they will come down.

"I have had several residents contacting me about them as the flats are being targeted for vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

"It is not a good situation.

"We just want River Clyde Homes to tell us what is happening."

There had been speculation in the neighbourhood that the flats could be kept on and used to provide homes for refugees resettling in Inverclyde.

River Clyde Homes said last year they'd been duty bound to explore interest in the flats.

But there has been no new movement since then.

Councillor McVey added: "We need to know what is happening."

Bosses at RCH say they are in talks with a number of parties about the buildings.

Their spokesperson told the Telegraph: "We are in engaged in a productive conversation with the Scottish Government around the future of the blocks at 80-86 Neil Street and will communicate with the community when we are in a position to do so."