Shelter praise for HMR

A HOUSING and homeless charity has praised the controversial HMR scheme for turning neighbourhoods around in Oldham.

Research from Shelter on the Housing Market Renewal (HMR) Pathfinder programme in Oldham and Rochdale concluded that it has made marked improvements to disadvantaged communities.

HMR bosses are delighted with the positive verdict from an independent group on the work it is supporting in both boroughs.

The scheme aims to improve housing in run-down areas to transform neighbourhoods and improve people’s lives. More than £154 million has been invested since 2004.

But residents in some districts have opposed the plans and don’t want their houses to be demolished.

Oldham Rochdale HMR Pathfinder director Alastair Graham said: “We are very pleased that such a well-respected organisation as Shelter has recognised how important HMR’s work is in turning around the neighbourhoods we are working in.

“We are building high quality new homes, and improving the condition of hundreds more, making a big difference to local communities and the homes that people are living in.

And hundreds of local people have benefited from jobs and training.

“We have further developed a variety of effective methods to engage with residents throughout the local communities, ensuring that residents have a strong voice around the changes taking place where they live.”

Mr Graham also welcomed Shelter’s call for continued funding for HMR beyond 2011.

The charity wants the Government to commit at least another £87 million or it says progress will grind to a halt and leave communities in limbo.

Shelter’s report also focused on the innovative labour into construction project, J21, which is funded by HMR.