01/06/12
Chair of HCA visits SEMLEP
Robert Napier CBE, Chairman of the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) visited parts of the SEMLEP area to hear about and see some of the exciting projects that are attracting high levels of interest in the area
Mr Napier first visited Bicester where Cherwell District Council provided him with an overview of the Bicester Masterplan, the Eco-Bicester vision and plans to roll out the Build! programme, part of which is being funded by the HCA.
Mr Napier and his team then took a tour of the town and surrounding areas to view at first hand some of the sites undergoing or earmarked for development, including the £70m town centre redevelopment, major housing sites at Graven Hill, Kingsmere and North West Bicester as well as potential employment and tourism sites.
Cllr Barry Wood, leader of Cherwell District Council said:
“Bicester is attracting a lot of interest right now. It is ripe for growth, but we need to ensure that such growth is planned to achieve the right balance of sustainable employment, housing and open space.
“Bicester has housing-ready customers and the town is investment ready, therefore continuing to attract funding that will enable developments to move forward is a priority for us.
“The HCA has provided a significant amount of funding for several developments in our region, in particular self-build projects, which continue to be extremely popular."
Robert Napier said:
“I was impressed by the progressive and dynamic energy surrounding Bicester and its people. They have a real appetite for growth and it was great to see some of the projects that the HCA has been involved in, demonstrating the contribution that housing brings to boosting local economies through improved transport infrastructure, commercial offerings, jobs and training opportunities.”
He then visited Silverstone where he reviewed a presentation on the existing development opportunities at Silverstone which is at the heart of Motorsport Valley and was taken on a tour around the circuit calling in at the new wing.
Finally Robert visited Northampton Borough Council where he received a presentation about the Waterside Enterprise Zone followed by a tour of the sites.
Dr Ann Limb OBE, Chair of SEMLEP said:
“It was a fantastic opportunity for SEMLEP to show Robert the energy and enthusiasm with which local authorities in our area approach the delivery of new homes and jobs to bring economic benefits to their communities.”
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