Review of Key Regeneration Schemes

What was it?

A review of regeneration schemes at risk in each region was led by the regional development agencies working closely with English Partnerships, its successor the Homes and Communities Agency, and other partners, in October 2008.

Why did we do it?

Physical regeneration remains a priority for this Government, which has a strong track record in renewing some of our most deprived communities. The Government will look to take action to alleviate any negative effects given current market conditions. In the face of worsening economic conditions, however, the Government believed it was important to identify those critical regeneration schemes with the greatest economic impact, put at risk by worsening economic conditions.

How did it work?

The Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform, and Communities and Local Government asked the regional development agencies to take the lead, working closely with the Homes and Communities Agency (and its predecessor bodies the Housing Corporation and English Partnerships) and other regional partners, to consider those regeneration schemes within each region which may be at risk or are already stalling. Regions were asked to take a view on how they could ensure that projects offering best value for money and the most far reaching impacts were still taken forward.

What happened next?

Regions worked together to produce a shared list of schemes in late October 2009. This list was submitted to Department in early November 2008, informing preparations for the 2008 Pre-Budget Report. In response, the Pre-Budget Report announced £180m of additional funding (£100m for the Regional Development Agencies; £80m for the Homes and Communities Agency) to be brought forward from 2010/11 to 2009/10.

What has this £180m been used for?

The Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (now the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills) and Communities and Local Government are currently working closely with the regional development agencies and the Homes and Communities Agency to determine on which programmes this additional funding is to be utilised.