Residents of a 16-storey tower block threatened with demolition are today due to find out more about plans for its future.

Lowestoft's only high-rise block of flats has come under scrutiny after a survey revealed further significant repairs are required.

Lowestoft Journal: St Peters Court in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick HowesSt Peters Court in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

With East Suffolk Council considering the future of St Peters Court in Lowestoft, tenants have been invited to attend drop-in sessions with officers on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday this week at the tower block.

Lowestoft Journal: St Peters Court in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick HowesSt Peters Court in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

Renovations at the 16-storey block of 90 two-bedroom flats - whose residents are mostly council tenants - were continuing on Tuesday after householders had been informed by letter of the situation.

Lowestoft Journal: St Peters Court in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick HowesSt Peters Court in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

Constructed over 15 floors with six flats on each floor, according to the council "over 20" flats are currently "vacant at present."

But with the building undergoing an "extensive improvement programme", a survey has also been carried out, which has identified further repairs and refurbishment is needed.

Lowestoft Journal: St Peters Court in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick HowesSt Peters Court in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

This includes improving the roof, replacing the windows and lifts as well as adding new external wall insulation and making improvements to the communal areas.

Lowestoft Journal: St Peters Court in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick HowesSt Peters Court in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

A council spokesman said: "The cost for these works is substantial, and the council will now consider whether undertaking these improvements would provide the best value for money for the council, and the building’s residents, which primarily consists of council tenants."

A report to be presented to the council’s cabinet in October will decide whether to keep St Peters Court, and make the necessary investment in improvements, or to empty and demolish the building, before redeveloping the site.

Lowestoft Journal: St Peters Court in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick HowesSt Peters Court in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

One tenant said on Tuesday he would prefer the council to continue with the repairs.

One local said: "Where are the residents going to live if its knocked down?" 

Another added: "The building has had its day and served its purpose - it needs replacing."

Work to construct the tower block began in 1966, and was completed in 1968.

Lowestoft Journal: David Beavan, East Suffolk council’s cabinet member for housing. Picture: East Suffolk CouncilDavid Beavan, East Suffolk council’s cabinet member for housing. Picture: East Suffolk Council (Image: East Suffolk Council)

David Beavan, East Suffolk council’s cabinet member for housing, stressed that the residents "views and concerns will be listened to."

He added: "The building is safe for its residents, but continued improvement and refurbishment work comes at a huge cost which may impact the long-term viability of the building."