543 jobs created by multi-million pound Sandwell homes drive

Officials say the programme, thought to be worth £26.4 million overall, has resulted in a 'significant' boost to the borough's economy.

In total 42 apprenticeship places have been created in the ongoing project.

The investment is part of a joint commitment made by the council and its project partners Keepmoat, Lovell, Vinci and Wates Living Space.

Work was carried out to make sure that ageing housing stock including tower blocks were fit for purpose for communities.

A series of Meet the Buyer events to attract local suppliers and sub-contractors have been held resulting in £16.2 million worth of sub-contract work being awarded to local small or medium-sized companies.

A training programme has seen 42 apprentices and eight graduate trainees kick-start their careers in construction.

Officials claim a further 14 education initiatives have been carried out, including health and safety talks at primary and secondary schools, presentations at careers fairs and work placements for school pupils.

Meanwhile, 543 new jobs have been created as a result of the housing investment and high-rise refurbishment programmes, nine of which have been filled by long-term unemployed people.

Support for local community groups, charities, and food and clothing banks has also been part of the programme.

This has included the refurbishment of community facilities at the Compton Grange sheltered-housing scheme, the donation of Christmas lunch and gifts for vulnerable and isolated residents and donating winter warmer packs to tenants.

Sandwell Council's £50m housing investment programme includes the installation of new kitchens and bathrooms, central heating systems and electrical rewiring where needed.

A £20 million high-rise refurbishment programme has also seen the transformation of seven residential blocks, three at The Crofts in Smethwick and four at Charlemont Farm in West Bromwich.

Councillor Paul Moore, Sandwell's cabinet member for regeneration and economic investment, said: "This scheme shows the importance of investing in council housing - not just to provide great homes for people but also good training and job opportunities, to help the local economy."

Council bosses have also revealed a new initiative to help community groups improve their premises.

The Hands-on Help housing investment legacy scheme offers free materials and labour to voluntary, community or not for profit organisations serving Sandwell.

Visit www.sandwell.gov.uk/sandwelllegacy or email investment_division@sandwell.gov.uk or call 0121 569 2924 for details.