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Carl Harris, 64, lives on the last house on the deserted street after the other homeowners moved following the council’s orders. The National Express bus driver has lived in the four-bedroom property for 30 years and is prepared to fight to keep it, Birmingham Live reports.

I want to stay in the area but there’s nothing with what they are offering that I can afford in this area

Carl Harris, the homeowner

The road, in Kings Norton, Birmingham, is set to be transformed into part of a new 117-home estate following planning approval last month.

Mr Harris said Birmingham City Council has now begun proceedings for a proposed compulsory purchase order, which he will challenge in the High Court if he is not offered enough to be able to afford another house in the same area.

The dad has been offered £120,000 in writing for the house but said he would need £150,000 to £160,000 to be able to afford another in the area.

He said: “We are just in a stalemate.

“I want to stay in the area but there’s nothing with what they are offering that I can afford in this area.

“They made me a verbal offer and want me to accept before putting it in writing.

“But I have to find somewhere suitable before I accept the offer.”

The coach driver added: “This has been going on for some time unfortunately and the council seems to be dragging its feet.

“They have council properties which they won’t allow me to buy.

“Some of the new three-bedroom houses nearby are starting at £258,000.”

He said if the matter is still not resolved as the council advances compulsory purchase proceedings, “it will go to court and a judge will decide”.

Mr Harris’ plight has divided opinion online.

One Facebook user wrote: “I find it astounding that the council can take away a house that someone has bought and paid for, and created memories in. No matter what condition or state of repair it is in, it is still his home.”

Another woman, who supports Mr Harris, said: “Don’t blame him at all. He has a house with a garden, he won’t be able to buy the same for £120,000. Clearly also putting him through a lot of stress. Why should he loose [sic] out financial [sic]?”

One man posted: “This is difficult. I can understand him holding out and wish him luck with getting more but, if the council proceed with the compulsory purchase, he could be left with high legal costs.”

But others defended the council in the dispute.

“He was lucky to be offered 120k,” wrote one Facebook user.

Another shared: “Compulsory purchase is an interesting area of law, it is reasonable.”

Birmingham City Council, a large Labour-controlled authority, has been approached for comment.

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