Consett News

A host of partner organisations, tasked with finding the best way to move ahead with housing and regeneration in the current climate, have pledged that opportunities remain, despite the challenges.
A conference, held in Durham today, Friday 23 July, was called in response to the
big changes planned by the new Coalition Government to the management and funding of housing and regeneration programmes.
It was organised by Durham County Council so that the many partners involved in forging the way ahead could consider, together, how to progress.
Developers, builders, housing associations as well as leading officers from the council and the Homes and Communities Agency met to discuss how they can get the most from investment planning for the future delivery of much needed affordable and market housing.
Councillor Clive Robson, cabinet member for housing, welcomed delegates to the event, attended by over 50 people.  He spoke to stress the importance of continued housing investment, not only to meet people’s needs but also to benefit the wider economy. 
Afterwards Councillor Robson said: “I was delighted with the attendance and quality of debate. 
“Although we are facing significant financial reductions to programmes, I am pleased to see there is no shortage of ideas and enthusiasm as we face the challenges ahead. 
“I  am very encouraged by this, and believe that Durham is well placed, alongside its partners in the Homes and Communities Agency and the wider public and private sector, to make steady progress towards realising the ambitions we have to make Durham an altogether better place to live’.  
The seminar concluded that there remain opportunities at a local level to work in partnership with communities and funding providers to deliver both growth and regeneration for the towns and villages of the county.