The demolition of a block of flats in Luton has been postponed for at least two years so the council can fulfil its obligations to homeless families.
A spokeswoman said: “We have been using the Purley Centre flats since 2012 for homeless households with a local connection to Luton and where the council has a legal duty to provide accommodation.”
She added: “This building will be used until we are ready to demolish it prior to redevelopment of the site for new secure permanent housing.
“It is difficult to put a timescale on this as planning approval for our proposals has not yet been sought.
“Our best estimates are that we will be looking to demolish no earlier than the early to mid 2015.”
The 1960s block in Marsh Farm has been refurbished “to acceptable standards” for the duration of its use.
It is currently home to 57 families.
A further 40 families have been housed in a hotel at a monthly cost of £50,000.
More than 100 new homes will be built when the redevelopment goes ahead.
The Luton News understands that private landlords are being invited to bid for a four year temporary accommodation contract worth more than £28 million.
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