Project improved lives of poorest
THE New Deal for Communities programme, which includes part of Doncaster, has helped bring about significant improvements for some of England's most deprived neighbourhoods, according to a new report.
A final evaluation report published to mark the end of the 2 billion regeneration programme in 39 areas has been welcomed by Doncaster Central MP and Local Government Minister Rosie Winterton.
It shows that many of the 400,000 people in the areas have benefited since 2001, as a result of sustained Government investment.
Doncaster's NDC covers the town centre, Nether Hall, Hyde Park, Balby Bridge and Hexthorpe areas of the borough.
A flagship project is the redevelopment of the former Church View art college to house young creative and digital businesses, and to provide a venue for social and cultural activities. This is bringing new businesses to the area and creating new employment opportunities for residents.
The reports reveal improvements in NDC areas, which each received on average 52 million, in the key areas of health, education, crime, skills and training, housing and the environment between 2002 and 2008, including a 22 per cent increase in the proportion of young people achieving five good GCSE passes.
Higher proportions of NDC residents have also seen an improvement in both their general health and their mental health than in other similar areas.
Ms Winterton said: "These studies clearly demonstrate that a decade of sustained Government investment has brought about substantial improvements for our most deprived communities.
"People living in NDC areas are much less worried about lawlessness and dereliction, they feel better about their areas, and are healthier.
"Equally important local confidence has blossomed and residents are looking upon their communities with a new-found pride and optimism.
"It is clear from these studies that the benefits brought about by the NDC Programme are highly valued by residents and this is reflected in the finding that the programme has delivered good value for money."
"But the work won't stop just because the programme has finished. By empowering residents, NDCs have created an army of community leaders who can champion their areas."
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