TENANTS on a Bolton council estate are being given the chance to give their homes a personal touch.

They are being given points which can be "spent" on optional extras to make their house feel like home.

The points scheme is the first of its kind in Bolton and it means that tenants have some choice on the final look of their home.

People whose homes are being modernised have a basic package of essential works to make them safe, warm and dry.

But on top of that, they are awarded 250 points to "spend" on personalising their homes.

Extras

There is a choice of "extras" which tenants can choose - ranging from tiling and wallpapering, patio doors or an alarm system.

One tenant said that he wanted a walk-in shower rather than a conventional bath.

The idea is being piloted in the Buckley Lane area, starting with homes at Firwood Avenue, Hilary Grove and Brookhouse Avenue which are being refurbished as part of the Farnworth Single Regeneration Budget scheme.

If it is successful, it could be extended to other homes in the borough.

Cllr Noel Spencer, Bolton housing committee chairman, said the idea was to give people the chance to personalise their homes.

He said: "When you go and buy a house, you usually have a list to choose from in the design which are your personal choice.

"We are trying to do the same thing, to give people more of a say in how their home will look once the workmen move out.

"People have different needs - for example, an older couple may prefer a walk-in shower rather than a bath and we are trying to reflect this in the points scheme.

"So far, the reaction from people has been very encouraging and we would like to extend it if possible."

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