§ Mr. Barry FieldTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what application he has had for housing partnership schemes from the Isle of Wight; and when he expects to make an announcement. [15851]
§ Mr. Robert B. JonesThe Department has received three applications under the housing partnership fund from the Isle of Wight. The successful schemes for the 1995–96 housing partnership fund are being announced today, and I am pleased to tell the hon. Member that the Hansford store conversion scheme in Ryde is to be allocated £177,000 to redevelop part of a redundant furniture store into 15 flats.
§ Mr. TredinnickTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment when he will announce the allocation of resources to local authorities under his Department's housing partnership fund for 1995–96. [16204]
§ Mr. CurrySome 220 schemes in 170 housing authorities will benefit from £30 million housing partnership fund for 1995–96.
Councils continue to be very enthusiastic about the scheme. This year we received over 740 bids. The scheme demonstrates the Government's commitment to supporting imaginative high-quality housing projects which will be of long-lasting benefit to local communities.
The successful bids involve a wide range of innovative and valuable housing projects, which address local housing needs. This year we have particularly focused on schemes to bring empty properties back into use and those which effect major energy efficiency improvements. The schemes have been put together in partnership with the private sector, housing associations and other local organisations.
The combination of public and private sector money means that up to £108 million will be invested to meet local housing need, help stimulate local economic growth and create jobs.
A list of the resources being allocated to local authorities under the housing partnerships fund for 1995–96 has been placed in the Library.