Urban development group approved
Northampton
Northampton is one of the designated regeneration areas
An Urban Development Corporation (UDC) for West Northamptonshire has been officially established after approval in the House of Commons this week.
Lord Rooker, Regional Development and Regeneration Minister, said it will bring housing, infrastructure and jobs.
Criticism has come from rural advocates and others who fear an unelected body will not listen to public opinion.
But a House of Lords select committee set up to hear their concerns recommended the UDC be approved.
On Wednesday, Lord Rooker said: "The UDC is the most effective vehicle to regenerate the area.
"The body will secure much-needed investment to improve employment, education, skills, leisure and health in the area; counter deprivation; and drive future economic prosperity."
Public and private sectors
He said the UDC would work to preserve the character of the region - one concern of the Committee to Protect Rural England, which opposed its formation.
Keith Barwell, chair-designate of the new group, said: "I look forward to working constructively with partners across the public, private and voluntary sectors to regenerate this flagship region and make Towcester, Daventry and Northampton a better place to live."
The UDC will be fully operational early in 2005, after the remaining board members are appointed.
Six of them will be chosen following nominations from four local authorities.