Plans to create thousands of jobs and new homes as part of the major transformation of the former MG Rover site at Longbridge have taken a major step forward, thanks to a decision to approve £3.7 million of investment in the project.
Cabinet Member for Housing, Councillor John Lines said: “The government has kept its word. Regeneration in Longbridge is a priority for Birmingham. It’s crucial that we deliver family homes for our people and this is a very welcome and much needed investment during these challenging economic times. We look forward to working with St Modwen and the Homes and Communities Agency on delivering these much needed homes.”
The Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) announced its investment of £3.7m to deliver the first 115 new and affordable homes along Lickey Road, creating a prominent frontage to the site. The homes will be mixed tenure and built to a high standard, meeting code level three and four for environmental sustainability.
Contributing to the wider public and private sector investment into Longbridge through the new Bournville College and other commercial development, this funding for residential development will unlock plans for 1,800 homes as part of the wider regeneration.
Paul Spooner, regional director for the HCA West Midlands added: “This is fantastic news for Birmingham. Longbridge has continued to be a priority for the local community and the city of Birmingham and we are delighted to confirm this funding to enable the first homes to be built.
“Our investment will also unlock the wider regeneration of the site, helping to safeguard and create jobs, complement the commercial redevelopment and support the city’s overall economic growth.”
The announcement of funding for Longbridge is part of a package to be funded by the HCA in the region. Schemes in Walsall and Dudley as well in Stratford, Cannock and Wychavon are amongst others seeing development unlocked through HCA investment.
Ends
Notes to editors
1. The Homes and Communities Agency is the single, national housing and regeneration delivery agency for England. Our role is to create opportunity for people to live in high quality, sustainable places. We provide funding for affordable housing, bring land back into productive use and improve quality of life by raising standards for the physical and social environment.
2. Following the Emergency Budget on 22 June 2010 the Government has confirmed £390 million of funding for the Agency this year that was previously put in doubt following the May spending review announcement.
Further information from Belinder Kaur Lidher on 0121 303 6969
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