Families forced out of their properties after a devastating fire tore through an apartment block have been told they can return to their homes next month.

The Holborough Lakes blaze emptied 22 apartments on the morning of Saturday, September 16, 2017, leaving dozens of people fleeing for their lives and having to seek alternative accommodation.

More than 100 firefighters were called to tackle the flames at Lambe Close, Manley Boulevard that morning, with bystanders left in tears as the inferno ripped through the building.

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Those affected say they have faced months of delays and complications since the block went up in flames but have now finally been given the green light to move back in over the next few weeks.

Residents have been told they can pick up their keys and move back in around June 17 and 18, bringing an end to more than a year-and-a-half of living elsewhere.

WATCH: Residents talking about moving back into their homes eight months ago

Demolition of the affected buildings was completed in July last year but fire chiefs admit they are likely to never know how and why the site went up in flames.

A spokesman said at the time: "Kent Fire and Rescue Service has completed an investigation at the site of the fire, and is unable to determine a definitive cause of the fire, due to the damage on the balcony of the property where it started."

A spokesman for Berkeley Homes said: “We are pleased that residents will be able to move into their homes shortly.”

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