Housing Minister John Healey has pledged to give his full support to a new vision published today for the future of the iconic Byker estate.

These proposals will bring £48 million into Byker and put the community in control of investment in the estate, redesigning homes, making them greener and creating new employment opportunities for local people. The plan has been prepared by a special taskforce set up by Mr Healey and independently chaired by Professor Peter Roberts. It will be subject to agreement by the Byker community themselves.

Mr Healey met with residents of the historic site today where he welcomed proposals for the future of Byker, and pledged Government backing by writing off around £44 million in local housing debt.

Alongside the Taskforce chair, Newcastle City Council and the Homes and Communities Agency, the Minister signed a commitment to work together to achieve the vision laid out by the Task Force to invest in a better future for Byker's residents.

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The grade II listed Byker Estate has been well-loved by its community for almost 40 years, but is in clear need of investment to meet modern standards. The new proposals for the future of Byker published include plans to establish a new Community Trust to take ownership of the area and continue the vital task of its regeneration.

Professor Peter Roberts, independent chairman of the Byker Taskforce, will lead this important further work over the coming weeks.

Mr Healey said: "The Byker estate is internationally acclaimed for its innovative and community-led design, and I want to see that continue. I would like to thank Professor Roberts and the Task Force for the work they have been doing to find the best way to secure Byker's future for the local community.

"The announcement is the basis for helping build a new future for Byker. Byker needs a unique vision for a unique place. While there is still a great deal of work to do this plan puts us on the right track, and I’m giving Government backing worth £44 million by writing off the local housing debt. We've all made a firm commitment today to work closely with the local community to bring these proposals to life. I want to ensure that tenants play a full part in this process so we can invest together in the best possible future for the residents of Byker."

(CD/GK)