Government policies

National strategy for neighbourhood renewal

Starting dates

2001: strategy published

2001: Neighbourhood Renewal Unit (NRU) established

2005: updated

Key department NRU leads a cross-Whitehall initiative
Key delivery agency Lead government department varies by subject area
Budget/target/comment

Two overall aims:

1. To bridge the gap between the most deprived neighbourhoods and the rest of England.

2. In the worst neighbourhoods to achieve lower long–term worklessness, less crime, better health and better educational qualifications.

The strategy includes such schemes as Neighbourhood Renewal Fund, New Deal for Communities, Local Strategic Partnerships, Neighbourhood Management, Street Wardens and Community Chests.

A central concept is that of 'floor targets' which no neighbourhoods should be below.  These floor targets cover the full range of Government activity and many are incorporated into the relevant Public Service Agreements (for health, education, etc).

Budget: funds are divided between various components of Neighbourhood Renewal Unit.  For example: a budget of £900 million to Neighbourhood Renewal Fund from 2001/02 to 2003/04 (for the 88 most deprived wards), £400 million in 2003/04, £450 million in 2004/05 and £525 million in 2005/06; £45 million for Neighbourhood Management; and £50 million for Community Chest.

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