The government has launched an expert panel co-chaired by Lord Heseltine and Housing Minister Brandon Lewis, to kick start estates regeneration.
The 17-strong group will report to the Prime Minister and the Communities Secretary Greg Clark, to develop a national estate regeneration strategy and work with up to 100 estates to tackle deprivation and transform them into vibrant communities.
New tenants rights will be at the heart of the regeneration of some of the country’s most deprived estates, Lord Heseltine said.
The panel met for the first time on 9 February and will look at how the layout of estates can be best used to deliver more quality homes that people can buy and rent.
They met at the York Road Estate in Battersea, southwest London, where plans are being developed for a major regeneration scheme.
The panel will also ensure that there are strong protections in place for existing residents, so they will always be given the right to return to their communities.
David Cameron announced in January that £140 million would be made available to jump start the regeneration.
The loan funding will allow communities to attract investment from the public and private sector, to deliver ambitious projects for local people.
Lord Heseltine said:
“Estates regeneration is key to transforming the lives of people living on poorly designed housing projects.
“The panel will provide expert advice, support and explore innovative funding solutions, to drive forward the regeneration of estates around the country.
“However, I am clear that this has to be locally led and we must work with the residents of such estates.
“I now want to see local communities coming forward with innovative ideas to achieve desirable neighbourhoods that local people can be proud of.”
Housing Minister Brandon Lewis added:
“We know these estates offer huge potential to be revived, so that they become thriving communities and places which people want to live and work in.
“This panel provides a wealth of experience to kick start work that will help transform the lives of thousands of people by delivering better homes in better estates.”
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