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The UK Government is to boost its £140 million estate regeneration fund with a further £32 million, it has been announced.
As part of a new blueprint for regenerating deprived housing estates, Communities Secretary Sajid Javid has unveiled details of a new government strategy, along with the additional funding, to "build places that work for everyone."
Under the proposals, councils, housing associations and developers can now bid for a share of the £172m fund which will be used to redevelop neighbourhoods and develop new high-quality housing. Advice will also be provided on various challenges to projects, such as resident protection concerns or finding the necessary finance.
Thousands of additional homes could potentially be delivered over the next 10 to 15 years vy regenerating estates, including well-designed public spaces.
The new national strategy was developed by an independent advisory panel, chaired by Lord Heseltine and the Housing and Planning Minister Gavin Barwell.
Key features of the new strategy include:
• Resident engagement and protection – this includes a model residents' charter to help ensure a better standard of resident protection.
• Good practice guide – steering schemes through all the key stages including the range of finance options available.
• Alternative approaches to regeneration – providing advice on community led housing development.
• Case studies – illustrating and highlighting examples of design and quality, along with community engagement.
Communities Secretary, Sajid Javid, said: "Rundown estates offer huge potential to become new thriving communities providing homes, jobs and opportunities and places that work for everyone.
"That's why we're determined to ensure the success of regeneration projects through the national strategy to transform the lives of thousands of people by delivering better homes in better estates."
Chief executive of Hyde Housing Association, Elaine Bailey, welcomed the publication of the new national strategy.
"This important initiative provides essential help and support to everyone participating in estate regeneration schemes.
"It is so important that residents are engaged and protected throughout – and it is really good to see the government set out its expectations on this issue."
(LM/MH)
