WORK has started on the first of a three-phased housing development as part of a £5.8 million regeneration scheme in Parr.

St Helens Council is teaming up with private sector partners, Maunders Homes, and locally-established Riverside Housing Association, to build 84 properties for sale and a further 50 for rent in the Park Road area.

The first phase, involving an area of neglected land just off Park Road/Mulcrow Close, is to be developed by Riverside Housing Association for 12 bungalows for rent, with some of them being specifically designed to mobility and wheelchair standard.

In addition, a further 14 two-storey family houses for rent will be constructed on in-fill sites along Recreation Street.

For phase two, Maunders Homes propose, subject to detailed planning approval, to build 43 family homes for sale and about 15 for rent together with the Riverside Association. The third phase, yet to be finalised, is expected to provide 41 family homes for sale and a further nine for renting.

Councillor Richard Ward, chairman of the council's Housing and Environmental Services Committee, said: "Our successful bid for the £5.8 million grant means that the revitalisation of Parr is to begin with much-needed and attractive housing."

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