SCORES of residents on a troubled housing estate in Hampshire are being given the chance to see the latest plans for a project to give their homes a much-needed make-over.

The doors have opened on a new drop-in centre based in The Gardens, Eastleigh, where locals can have their say on the scheme to bring new life into the area.

The office has been opened as part of a major consultation scheme launched by housing bosses last month.

They want to revamp the Sixties-built homes in Elm Tree Gardens, Maple Leaf Gardens, Grantham Court and part of Desborough Road - once dubbed Eastleigh's "Cinderella Courts" - and are keen that the residents themselves should influence the final look of their homes.

One option being considered by Eastleigh Housing Association is to demolish all 135 flats and 24 maisonettes to make way for new accommodation. Locals have also been presented with the choice of leaving the estate as it is, having their homes refurbished or demolishing some and revamping others.

Now, tenants are being encouraged to drop in to a new estate office set up especially so they can keep an eye on developments.

Residents will be able to view drawings and impressions of the proposals and ask local estate manager Yvonne Anderson any questions they may have.

Yvonne said: "All residents are welcome. I'd be pleased to see anyone who would like to know more about the proposals, or if there are any other general housing inquiries."

The office, at 2 Maple Leaf Gardens, will be open on Monday mornings from 9.30am- 1pm and Wednesday afternoons from 1pm- 4.30pm, excluding New Year's Day.