RESIDENTS living near to an empty house in Stretford are angry that it is being left to rot

For the neighbours on Bradfield Road say that the property next to the entrance to the park has become an eyesore and a regular haunt for youngsters over the past two years.

And their fears were compounded when the garage was gutted in a fire started by children with matches 10 days ago.

Now they want the council to take action to prevent further problems at the house.

A neighbour told SUM: "It is a major worry for us living nearby because it has been left to deteriorate over the past couple of years.

"This has meant that youngsters who congregate on Moss Park behind the houses on our road have started to use it as a den."

The residents say that the property is privately owned and cannot understand why it is being left vacant.

But they are becoming increasing worried about the potential hazards of an unsafe property, especially after recent problems with vandals in the park.

Another homeowner went on: "When the garage was set alight recently, it really frightened us because it could have spread to our house if the fire brigade hadn't been alerted.

"It has been a worry for some time that something like this could happen and has led to sleepless nights.

"We just hope that the council can do something to stop the rot and help alleviate our concerns."

A spokesperson for Trafford Council told SUM: "Environmental protection officers from the council visited the property as soon as this came to light - we were not previously aware of any problems at the house.

"It is now secured and we will be contacting the owner about the length of time the property has been left empty."

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