A NEW community initiative is proving to be a success after a pot of money has been allocated to help housing related projects throughout Dudley borough.

Dudley Council’s housing services have set aside a budget of nearly £500,000 a year to fund local community projects which have been approved by the housing board and Dudley Federation of Tenants’ and Residents’ Association.

The group assesses each bid against the qualifying criteria before deciding whether to support the application for funding and ranking according to prioritisation.

Projects selected as high priority to be undertaken in the near future include the upgrade of communal entrance doors and lighting at Kates Hill, parking facilities for six bungalows at Saltwells Road, a block of garages to be demolished at Round House Road and upgrade to communal entrance at blocks at Chawn Hill Close.

Councillor Gaye Partridge, cabinet member for housing, said: “We want as many tenants involved in making the decision as to where funds are spent as possible.

“This money can only be invested in projects proposed and supported by the community.

“This is great news for everyone living on our estates as it ensures that they their wishes are taken into account when making decisions about improvements.”