Housing Plan for Eastfield and Thorplands estates Welcomed

Andrew Simpson, Lib Dem Parliamentary spokesperson for Northampton North constituency, has welcomed proposals from Northampton Borough Council for up to £100 million of investment in Eastfield and Thorplands housing estates.

"After decades of neglect the Lib Dem run Borough Council is finally trying to bring real improvements to two estates in the town that badly need attention" said Andrew. "The proposed Private Finance Initiative (PFI) scheme for £100 million offers a once in a generation chance to make fundamental improvements to these two estates. Whilst I am no great fan of PFI I do recognise that this is the only offer on the table and it would be irresponsible of the Council not to try and take up the opportunity."

The Borough Council's Cabinet agreed to the submission of an outline business plan to the Government for consideration. The Council has successfully got through previous stages of the process.

"This is a really difficult scheme for the Council to progress and clearly at the start there was not enough consultation and involvement with local residents. It will also result in some homes being replaced which is going to be very distressing for long established residents."

"However in the long run it will provide more new council houses and refurbish and renew many existing as well as changing the layout of the area for the better. That can only be a really positive step forward."