Since it began in 1996, Huyton HELP has made a significant difference to the overall appearance and quality of life in the town. Huyton Library and the village shopping areas are just two of the more visible changes brought about by SRB funding. Job creation, education, community development and improving the quality of life all have high priorities on the Huyton HELP agenda. Huyton HELP is also committed to ensuring that within the area there is a choice of affordable, well-built and maintained homes available. The recent development of land at Bakers Green Road is just one of these projects.
The redevelopment of the former shopping parade in Bakers Green Road represents a major success story for the partners involved - Huyton HELP, Villages Housing Association and Knowsley Council. Of the 24 houses built on the site, 14 are for rent and 10 for shared ownership. Porter Buildings undertook the work for the VHA, recruiting local labour thorough Knowsley's New Deal initiative.
VHA's Sarah Bevan told Huyton Today, "The whole project cost around £900,000, with about £220,000 coming from SRB/Huyton HELP. We also received funding from the Housing Corporation and private businesses. We have been working in partnership with KMBC and undertook a public consultation over the project. Local people were very supportive of the scheme."
Pleased with the success of the scheme, the VHA are now looking at other areas for development.
Improved security
Knowsley MBCs Housing Department are also undertaking a major
improvement project in the area, upgrading and replacing rear
fences. This project, also supported by Huyton HELP, is improving
security in the area. The work is being carried out by private
company, Skorpion, who are employing local people through the
Local Labour in Construction initiative.