HC Deb 03 February 1987 vol 109 cc620-1W
Mr. Sayeed

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment which authorities are invited to submit applications for urban development grant; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. John Patten

Urban development grant has been successful in bringing about private investment which will contribute to the economic and physical regeneration of inner urban areas. 226 approved projects represent £544 million of investment brought about by ?105 million of public expenditure. Provision for UDG will continue to be made within the urban aid expenditure block.

Priority will continue to be given to those areas where there are severe problems of urban deprivation. Invitations to submit further applications for UDG are being sent to those local authorities in England which have been invited to draw up inner area programme for 1987–88. In addition to 49 authorities which have previously been invited to put forward projects for UDG, the following authorities have been invited for the first time:

  • Bristol
  • Derby
  • Halton
  • Kensington & Chelsea
  • Kirklees
  • Plymouth
  • Preston
  • Stockton

Applications may be submitted by other authorities, but will be considered in the light of the priority mentioned above.