But now they've been told the job will cost too much – and Falkirk Council is not prepared to foot the bill.

Residents had picked out new kitchens and fireplaces and were preparing to move out of their homes while the work was being done.

But last week officials told those living in the affected flats in Overton Crescent that the price of the project had worked out higher than they had thought and that they were going back to the drawing board.

The council say it is still committed to improving the area, but residents are "devastated".

David McDonald, chairperson of Broadside, Overton and Little Denny (BOLD) residents' group said: "The council has treated us like dummies, like imbeciles. They have basically messed us around for two years.

"This work was supposed to start in January, but we were left in limbo for months, not knowing when we were going to have to move out. We all had lives to lead but we couldn't make plans or book holidays or do anything.

"Then we had a meeting with the council and they told us that the tenders from the contractors had come back and were too expensive.

"They said that they were basically going back to square one and were going to carry out consultations with residents.
Tenants are furious that they are being left in the dark by housing officials.

Seven blocks of 12 flats in the area were scheduled to have work done including re-roofing, kitchen refurbishments and have central heating installed.

Although some flats are lying empty, around 30 families are affected.
Mr McDonald (51), who lives in Overton Crescent, said that to add insult to injury, residents' rents had also gone up despite assurances that would not happen.

Mr McDonald added: "These flats are an eyesore. Nothing has been done with them for 18 years. They have a tin roof. We asked the council if they were going to demolish the flats, and they said they didn't know."

Jennifer Litts, head of service at the council said: "Because the tender prices for this project were significantly higher than the estimated costs the project was not cost effective and is currently on hold, pending further consideration.

"A public meeting was held on April 23 at which tenants were advised of the situation and our intention to work with them on the way forward.

"Obviously, it was very disappointing that the project has had to be delayed and we apologise to all the tenants involved.

She added that the council remained committed to improving the flats and further consultation is taking place.