Derelict sites in three regions transformed into new homes

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities has said that derelict and underused brownfield sites across the country will be transformed into new homes.

West Midlands, Greater Manchester and the Tees Valley Combined Authorities have been awarded their share of £30 million funding to regenerate brownfield sites across the three regions and create 2,500 new homes. The announcement forms part of the government’s plan to level up communities across the country, creating vibrant new places for people to live and work, boosting local economies and delivering new homes and jobs.

A further £8 million from the Brownfield Land Release Fund has also been allocated to 13 councils across England to deliver almost 900 homes, boost the self and custom build sector, support small and medium sized building firms and create thousands of jobs.

Additionally, £4.45 million of funding has also been awarded to 16 local areas under the One Public Estate (OPE) programme, which will support councils to work with central government and public sector partners to unlock public sector land for an additional 3,000 new homes over the next 10 years, creating 4,500 jobs.

Housing Minister Stuart Andrew said: “Transforming derelict brownfield sites into vibrant places where people want to live and work is a key part of our mission to level up the country and is something I have supported for my entire career.

“The funding announced today will breathe fresh life into former industrial sites, creating thriving urban communities and building more homes so young people and families have the opportunity to get onto the housing ladder. Our levelling up plans for housing will be guided by this brownfield first approach, this includes the building of more self and custom build homes which will be a boost for small builders and create thousands of jobs.”