CHIEF Whip and local MP Sir George Young was on hand to celebrate the official completion of a £20m regeneration project on the Ash Road estate in Bishops Green.

The project, a joint venture between Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, Sentinel Housing Association and the local community, has resulted in a transformation of the estate.

A total of 95 outdated homes have been replaced with 148 new homes and new facilities, including a new village hall, youth centre, village shop and newly- equipped play facilities.

Sir George, MP for North West Hampshire helped to mark the official completion of the development.

He said: “The old homes were small and cramped and not fit for purpose. The transformation is marvellous, with a wider mix of homes and greatly improved amenities.

“It’s difficult to remember what the estate was like before. Top marks to Sentinel on getting more homes and improved community facilities on a constrained site without it looking overcrowded.”

Sentinel chief executive Martin Nurse added: “We’re delighted that the community has settled in so well. Rural neighbourhoods often suffer from a lack of facilities and it’s clear from the comments we’ve received that residents are much happier in their new homes, and that the new facilities have made a real difference to the wider community too.

“This type of community regeneration also helps to stimulate the local economy, providing jobs for local people and contracts for local businesses.

Councillor Rob Golding, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Cabinet member for housing and regeneration, said: “This regeneration project is a splendid example of successful joint working to improve the area for local residents.

“This part of the estate has been transformed – creating new affordable homes to suit all needs as well as brand new facilities for the whole community to benefit from and enjoy.”