Communities across Wales in need of regeneration will receive more than £25 million in housing renewal aid from the Welsh Assembly Government.

Deputy Minister for Housing, Jocelyn Davies announced the grants totalling £25.65 million to support 39 renewal areas in 19 local authorities.

Each council has its own action plan to improve housing and amenities in their areas with the aim of kick starting wide-ranging investment and reversing the process of decline.

Ms Davies said: "This programme will improve the quality of life for thousands of people across Wales, helping to restore confidence in towns and villages in need of regeneration. As well as improving living conditions and facilities for residents, these funds have the added benefit of boosting local employment by providing work and business for builders and suppliers.

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"Many of these projects span several financial years providing longer-term employment opportunities. It’s therefore vital that local contractors are involved in these bigger projects."

The money can be spent in a number of ways and will support long-term sustainable improvements to communities. These include renovating housing, modernising shop fronts, environmental projects, highway and traffic calming measures, healthy living projects and local training and employment facilities. Local authorities decide how to spend the money in line with with their priorities.

Ms Davies added: "The Welsh Assembly Government is committed to regeneration and creating a fair and just society as part of our One Wales commitment. We are striving to ensure that everyone has a good standard of housing especially in our poorest communities. Our continued support for housing renewal areas clearly demonstrates our long-term commitment to this goal and to create a more equal Wales."

(JM)