The Rowner Renewal Partnership – a fresh approach.

 The regeneration of the Rowner housing estate in Gosport has received a major boost with the establishment of The Rowner Renewal Partnership that will unite the key players leading the transformation of this neglected neighbourhood.

The Rowner Renewal Partnership brings together five important agents for change: the national regeneration agency, English Partnerships, Gosport Borough Council, Hampshire County Council, Portsmouth Housing Association (PHA) and leading homebuilder, Taylor Woodrow.

The Rowner estate was built in the 1960s originally for the Ministry of Defence, and is now largely privately owned.  Over the years it has been in the media spotlight due to its decaying infrastructure, lack of maintenance and resulting social challenges.

During the 1990s real progress was made to improve the area and involve the community in its regeneration. This has included the construction of a community centre, refurbishment of a large number of housing association homes, the launch of a number of innovative community initiatives funded by the Single Regeneration Budget (SRB) and also the SureStart project.  The Rowner community, working with the local authorities and other supporters continues its work to provide new facilities and initiatives to involve young people such as the new Youth Centre and the annual Rowner Carnival.

What has been needed however is a combination of private and public sector organisations that are committed to long-term change. Today such a commitment has been made in the formation of this important partnership.

Hampshire County Council and Gosport Borough Council were instrumental in creating the partnership and bringing the estate to ministerial attention.  The resources and experience of English Partnerships, PHA and Taylor Woodrow will all ensure that a regeneration project is successful.

The vision of the Partnership is to regenerate the Rowner area by providing high quality, environmentally sustainable homes and facilities.  It will work closely with local residents to deliver new homes, job opportunities and community benefits.
 
A spokesperson for the Partnership, John Butler, Chief Executive of Portsmouth Housing Association (PHA) said:

“I would also like to recognise the important and key roles Gosport Borough Council and Hampshire County Council have played in supporting and committing to the Partnership and the overall regeneration of the area. 

“Our partnership is an excellent example of public and private sectors working together.  Through this Partnership - through our commitment and expertise - we can provide the opportunity for Rowner to examine its options and realise its potential. This is a truly fresh approach.

“PHA, working with the leading homebuilder, Taylor Woodrow, will now produce outline proposals for engaging with local residents, groups and businesses.  This process will start in May 2007. ”

David Ashworth, Area Director at English Partnerships said:

“In our considerable experience, working in partnership is the only way to deliver successful regeneration projects.  This is an exciting opportunity to bring our skills and expertise to Rowner and we look forward to consulting local residents about their aspirations for their neighbourhood.”

Leader of Hampshire County Council, Councillor Ken Thornber CBE adds:

“For over two years, Hampshire County Council has worked discreetly and tirelessly to bring together key business partners, public sector and private developers to create a new vision and future for the people of Rowner.  Throughout we have been impressed by the strong sense of pride within Rowner.  Together, with our partners, we aim to ensure that the residents of Rowner have the fullest of opportunities to meet with all concerned so they can help shape the future of their estate.” 

Leader of Gosport Borough Council, Councillor Shaun Cully said:

“This Partnership will provide a brighter, new start for the residents of Rowner.  It has been a long time coming, but it was imperative the right people were brought on board to ensure the best results are delivered for the residents of Rowner both now, and in the future.”

If anyone would like further information on the Rowner Renewal Partnership and its aims please contact the Rowner Renewal Enquiry Line on 08450 343317