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2005
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March 2005
> Government Funding for Furness and West Cumbria
Housing and regeneration experts throughout Furness and West Cumbria have today welcomed the positive news from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister that they are to receive the first instalment of funding from the Government to modernise the area’s housing markets.
They have studied the proposals presented by the ODPM and agree that it is a ‘positive first step in the right direction’.
Collectively they agree that although significant funds are required over a sustained period to ensure their objectives are achieved throughout Furness and West Cumbria, the initial amount put forward by the ODPM of £7 million over 2006-2008 is an excellent first step and one that should be welcomed by the public and the key agencies involved across the region.
Commenting on the news, Kim Penfold Director of Strategy and Information at Harvest Housing Group (of which major local landlord Derwent & Solway HA is a member) said:
“Although seven million pounds may not cover all our needs, which are highlighted by the recent research conducted on behalf of the Furness and West Cumbria Housing Market Renewal Partnership by DTZ Pieda, it is clear that as a first step this funding will build confidence in the area and attract more public money and encourage private investment on a much larger scale than previously seen.”
The research, which has been led by West Lakes Renaissance forecasts that the ODPM’s financial injection will create more opportunities for
Housing Corporation programmes, which will help improve rented housing throughout Furness and West Cumbria and will be the catalyst for the private sector to increase variety and choice in the housing market.
Kim Penfold adds:
“We see this move from the ODPM as recognition of the positive initiatives developed by the 3 local authorities, our partner housing associations and West Lakes Renaissance, the urban regeneration company, who have all shown tremendous cooperation and a desire to improve the region. It is a great start and one we can build on.”