MORE than three months after taking on the tenancy of a council flat in Southampton Toni Martin has not moved in because she says the block is too filthy.

Toni has been trying to get the council to clean up the communal areas of the block of flats in Elwood Road, Thornhill, which are infested with rubbish and dirt, since she took on the tenancy at the end of last year.

So far, nothing has been done.

Now Toni, her husband Steve and nine-month-old daughter Molly will be living with her sister in Spring Road, Sholing, until the problem has been resolved.

"Ever since I took on the tenancy I have been on at the council to maintain the communal areas," said Toni.

"They are absolutely filthy and I have even seen rats in the bin areas.

"I am so appalled that I have taken video footage periodically.

"I have seen my MP, local councillors and I have contacted the council myself, but so far nothing has been done.

"The hallways and the stairwells are full of rubbish and there is stuff spilt that has not been cleaned up.

"According to the tenancy agreement the council is responsible for maintaining and keeping the communal areas clean. But they are clearly not doing that.

"One of my biggest worries is that Molly is just starting to pull herself up and I don't want her being around that filth. I don't even touch the banisters myself."

A spokesman for Southampton City Council said: "These blocks are regularly visited by the Neighbourhood Wardens, who carry out cleaning on a quarterly basis.

"However, because of ongoing issues this particular block has been cleaned in January, February and March of 2005, and again last week.

"Southampton City Council Housing Officers are aware of the problem and are investigating possible breaking of tenancy agreements, which state that tenants have a responsibility to keep their own living areas clean and tidy.

"We can and will take action against any tenants found to be disposing rubbish in or vandalising the communal areas. Anyone with information regarding this issue should contact the local housing office."