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Gipton: Champion idea to raise prosperity on estates
Gipton is to receive extra Government help and get estate champions.
Communities Secretary John Denham has extended a 12m drive across the north to address people's concerns which includes Gipton.
He says the programme is set up to ensure that all communities are well placed to share fully in future prosperity and emerge from the recession stronger and more cohesive.
The hope is that the selected communities will see rising school standards, modernisation of public housing, the introduction of neighbourhood policing and improved public spaces.
Mr Denham said that some communities feel they work hard, play by the rules but that somehow are not repaid by a fair deal and are not being listened to.
"This programme is about ensuring that they do feel the benefit of that investment – and that there are no special favours or privileges," he said.
"It helps to address local concerns and problems and help local leaders focus and act on the issues that matter to the people living there."
He added: "Substantial investment has transformed communities across the country – but there are still communities who don't seem to feel that benefit.
"They feel they work hard, pay taxes and follow the rules but others seem to have a better deal. The Government is determined to do everything we can to support all communities during the downturn.
"Getting it right means working with and listening to the people based in those communities who see the challenge close up and know what is needed to make a difference.
He said the package of Leeds support will enable local people to influence, shape and change policies on issues which really matter in their community.
Mr Denham explained that the programme Connecting Communities is tackling head-on issues – real and perceived – which, left neglected, can prove fertile territory for extremism and those who would divide our communities.
Rosie Winterton, the Minister for Yorkshire and The Humber, welcomed the extra funding for Gipton, and said:"I know from meeting people already benefitting from the Connecting Communities initiative in Yorkshire and The Humber that it has led to valuable work that is bringing about many positive results.
"This latest announcement will have a real impact on communities across our region, helping to improve housing and the immediate environment and to increase opportunities for residents."
Around 2m of funding is being directed at activity to support community champions in areas like Gipton.
Council staff and councillors will be advised on how to develop the skills and confidence to address local issues head on.
Community champions will be offered training to enable them to represent local people and take action to put things right.
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Friday 18 May 2012
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