In north-east Coventry hope pounds 50million of New Deal money will breathe new life into

Memory Lane Photo Prints and Wall Art

In north-east Coventry hope pounds 50million of New Deal money will breathe new life into

In north-east Coventry hope pounds 50million of New Deal money will breathe new life into their communities. But with 300 derelict properties blighting the streets, there is a long way to go. Coventry North East MP Bob Ainsworth wants less talking and more action. Political editor FIONA SCOTT reports.
THE SKY was clearly visible through the rafters of the damaged roof of what was once a council maisonette.
Coventry MP Bob Ainsworth stood in what had been the hallway of a one- bedroomed flat, now owned by Whitefriars Housing.
His feet squelched on the filthy mulch of damp paper, rubbish and glass- fibre insulation topped with broken roof tiles which littered the floor.
The door to the flat had been kicked in long ago.
As he ventured into the living-room, Cllr Brian Patton warned: " I m not sure the floor is safe, I wouldn t go in there. You might fall through."
This is Pailton Close, off River Walk, Wood End, not far from where the Coventry North East Labour MP was brought up.
All over Wood End and Henley Green there are similar sights - desolate and derelict homes standing cheek by jowl with carefully-tended properties.
Both politicians want to put pressure on Whitefriars Housing to knock them down as soon as possible to make the environment better for those who want to live in the area, and to reduce the fear of crime - particularly for elderly people.
They fear the pounds 50 million over 10 years New Deal for Communities grant awarded to Wood End, Henley Green and Manor Farm two years ago may not realise its full potential if the area continues to be blighted by unwanted and empty homes.
From the rubble-strewn first-floor landing of the empty block of maisonettes in Pailton Close, they could see the back gardens of properties in the next street. Mr Ainsworth looked at the cheerful flower-boxes in one.
" Look at that. There are decent people here, trying their best, trying to get on with their lives, and they have to put up with this, " he said, getting even more enth

Will Binns
Coventry Telegraph Archive
Mirrorpix
Coventry
West Midlands
England
D10629-2

Media ID 21354600

© Mirrorpix

Coventry Serious

MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee

FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools

SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you

* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.