HCA/AGMA agreement to help Greater Manchester regeneration
An agreement has been launched today by the Homes & Communities Agency and the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities meaning both can work together more directly.
The local investment agreement has been reached through a single conversation process which has enabled AGMA to have a single clear voice in its discussions with the HCA.
The local investment agreement means that HCA and AGMA will agree future housing and regeneration priorities that will co-ordinate over £370m of investment across Greater Manchester. It will make sure that these resources are targeted where they will have the greatest impact and are most needed.
The agreement will form a foundation for future joint working and ensure that instead of local authorities, registered social landlords and developers discussing investment requirements separately with HCA, investment will be co-ordinated and targeted to best complement improvements in health, transport and other areas.
The HCA and AGMA have also agreed to continue to work together to develop new approaches to help deliver much needed new housing in the face of the economic downturn.
Lord Peter Smith, leader of AGMA, said: "This is extremely welcome news and another compelling illustration of how the Manchester City Region is working collectively towards a shared vision.
"This agreement will enable us to channel housing and regeneration investment in Greater Manchester to where it will have the greatest impact.
"Having a single voice and clarity about our priorities puts us in a stronger position and I commend the HCA for recognising this and helping us streamline the decision-making process."
Deborah McLaughlin, North West regional director of the Homes & Communities Agency, said: "The agreement we are signing today demonstrates the impact of collaborative working through the Single Conversation approach. I am sure that the result of this positive dialogue will deliver great benefit to local communities.
"The strong leadership shown by AGMA has ensured rapid progress in establishing joint priorities for future investment. The agreement marks an important stage in delivering the Manchester Statutory City Region pilot."
The HCA said it is the first sub-regional single conversation to be concluded, forming the foundation for future working and ensuring that HCA's resources including land assets, revenue support and legal powers are used locally to maximum effect.
