Tenants in Maryport have been warned to prepare for delays for repairs after a major contractor has been axed. 

Home Group, which looks after 780 homes in the town, has parted company with Wilmott Dixon after a restructuring.

The social landlord has warned that this could mean delays in non-essential maintenance to its houses, which are mainly on the Ewanrigg and Netherton estates.

A spokeswoman said: "Gas servicing and emergency repairs will remain our priority and this may involve some delays with non-emergency repairs.

"We will review each request for work that is logged with our customer service centre and look to remedy the situation as soon as we can."

Wilmott Dixon signed a seven-year £14 million contract in 2011 for Home Group's 3,400 Cumbrian properties, with an option to extend for another two years.

When the contractor began working in the Maryport area in 2013, there were so many complaints about Wilmott Dixon that Ewanrigg and Netherton Tenants' and Residents' Association debated starting a petition to get rid of the firm.

The main criticisms were delays to work and workmen not turning up at appointed times.

However, in recent times the complaints have tapered off.

Graham Darby, assistant director of customer service for Home said: "As part of Home Group's commitment to providing a quality service for our customers and clients, we are changing the way we operate our repair service in the North West and central regions. 

"Home Group continually review the repairs and maintenance service we offer and this involves us using other approved contractors to undertake repair work for our customers.

"We anticipate there may be some delay for customers during this transition stage over the next few weeks and we have contacted customers informing them of this situation."

No one was available from Wilmott Dixon for comment last night.