NEWS STORY: NOVEMBER 2006

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Government minister launches improvements

Ruth Kelly at the launch of the Bideford Road improvements Ruth Kelly MP (left) at the launch of the Bideford Road improvements; with Lorraine Donnelly, apprentice joiner, Bramhall Construction; and Nigel Wilson, Chief Executive of Parkway Green.

Government minister Ruth Kelly MP, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, has launched a major part of the £90 million improvement programme set to transform Parkway Green homes and estates.

She came to our area on Friday 10 November to kickstart a major series of environmental upgrades, starting at Bideford Drive, Baguley.

The minister saw how we'll convert balcony space to be part of the inside of flats, giving tenants more living-room and stopping damp in the homes below. There'll be improvements to the environment around too - like off-street parking - based on the sort of things local people told us they wanted.

Not hanging about

The environmental work at Bideford Drive shows we're off to a flying start - but it isn't even the first scheme to get going. The ink was hardly dry on our contract to take over housing from the council when we got cracking on four big home improvement programmes - proof that we really mean business!

"We're delighted that a high-profile government minister has launched an environmental programme that will make a real difference to local people" said Parkway Green Chief Executive Nigel Wilson. "Now it's full steam ahead to bring all homes up to the modern standards our tenants expect".

What's happening, when?

So when are we going to give your home the star treatment? With around 6,000 properties to improve we can't do everything at once - so we've got a five-year improvement programme. We're putting the finishing touches to the detailed plans - you'll soon be able to use this website to find out exactly what we'll do, and when we'll be down your street. Watch this space!