Plans to revamp estate are revealed

PLANS to regenerate a run-down Middlesbrough community have been revealed to residents.

People living in Grove Hill are being urged to have their say on proposals to revamp their neighbourhood and shape the future of their estate.

Erimus Housing has carried out a massive consultation exercise with residents to give their views on the area, as well as how they think the community could be improved.

The organisation, which is the largest landlord in Grove Hill, has also worked with other agencies to put together a number of proposals for the area.

These include clearing some long-term empty properties and modernising scores of homes in areas that are sustainable.

Other areas need further consideration and consultation before long-term options can be developed.

But officers from Erimus still need to speak to everyone living in Grove Hill about their views on the plans.

Brian Kelly, Chair of the Regeneration Committee for Erimus Housing, said: "Our residents' views are vital and we are really grateful to them for the information they have already provided which has allowed us to get this far.

"We are sure we can count on their continued support as we look at how we can make life better for the residents of the future".

Some homes in Grove Hill have seen their popularity decline in recent years, despite previous investment to modernise properties. Many people have moved away from the area and there is now a concentration of empty and boarded up properties.

But Erimus, the major landlord in Grove Hill, believes with help from current residents, the estate could once again become a popular place where people want to come and live.

A newsletter has recently been sent out to explain the proposals and a series of consultation sessions have been set up across the area, where people can give their views on the proposals.

Regeneration officers will also be available to give information and answer any questions.

Mr Kelly added: "We are starting a month-long consultation exercise with residents to find out their views on the way forward for Grove Hill.

"The proposals include getting rid of some of the worst properties and look at how we can provide a greater choice of accommodation in Grove Hill".