§ Mr. SheermanTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister what plans he has to provide resources for housing market renewal in West Yorkshire. [136412]
§ Keith HillThe Regional Housing Board for Yorkshire and the Humber has identified £16 million over two years to kick-start a West Yorkshire Low Demand Project, in addition to the needs-based allocation that all local authorities will receive. In 2004–05, West and South Yorkshire will also be sharing £2 million of the £6 million identified for innovative approaches to private sector renewal in Yorkshire and the Humber, with bids from all sub-regions for the remaining £4 million to be invited early next year. The board will also allocate £10 million for 2005–06 for transformational projects that meet the region's priorities, which include regeneration and neighbourhood renewal.
There are no current plans for further Market Renewal Pathfinders. The evidence for further pathfinders will be considered within the context and constraints of the 2004 Spending Review.