ST HELENS Council leader Marie Rimmer has been witnessing the multi-million pound regeneration of Newton following her elevation as chairman of the Newton 21 Single Regeneration Budget (SRB) board.

Marie was given a tour of a selection of the 70-plus projects now being organised by the board, including a visit to the £140,000 CCTV 'Eyes Over Newton' base where it is possible to view Newton through one of the many security camera lenses set up to combat crime.

Other tour stop-offs included the re-vamped Mesnes Park which cost £807,000, the £550,000 pedestrianised zones of Oxford and Market Streets, the bus station which was set up with funding of £342,000, the £413,000 improvements to Earlestown Station and the nearly-completed £3 million Sankey Valley access bridge.

Councillor Rimmer was also able to have a look at one of Newton 21's latest projects, a £2.4 million Housing Renewal Scheme currently underway in Earlestown. Dozens of houses are expected to be upgraded and work has already started in Peel Street.

After the tour she said: "I am delighted at my appointment as chairman of such a vital regeneration project for Newton. It was extremely encouraging to see the vast improvements which have already been made during the past three years as part of the SRB programme. There is still much work to be done but the sheer volume of work already completed shows the commitment and success of the programme which has improved the quality of life for both residents and businesses.

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