§ Mr. WatersonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what action he proposes to take following delays by SEEDA in its appraisal of SRB Round 6 projects; and if he will make a statement. [156686]
§ Ms Beverley HughesThe Eastbourne Regeneration partnership "Reborn" was successful in its bid for Round 6 funding through the Government's Single Regeneration Scheme and was awarded £5 million by SEEDA in July 2000. The partnership, in common with all other partnerships, was required to show that each of the proposed projects could demonstrate sound financial viability and value for money. Thirteen projects were put forward by the partnership but were originally lacking in sufficient detail to meet the requirements of the SRB Scheme. Considerable time was spent by SEEDA with the partnership in addressing and resolving these issues. As a result of the additional time spent by SEEDA on these particular projects there have been delays elsewhere which SEEDA has also addressed.
I am satisfied that SEEDA has acted properly in ensuring that these projects meet the required standards specified in the SRB Scheme thereby ensuring the proper stewardship of public funds being invested in the region. I do not believe that there is any further action to take in this matter.