PLANS to deliver a ‘game-changing’ masterplan for six of the borough’s wards are progressing.

The central area neighbourhood renewal board is overlooking the central six regeneration masterplan.

The ambitious initiative aims to put forward innovative proposals to shape regeneration in Bewsey and Whitecross, Fairfield and Howley, Latchford East, Latchford West, Orford and Poplars and Hulme.

The second consultation closed on April 22, with the date for the next stage due to be announced in the mid-May.

Cllr Jean Flaherty (LAB – Fairfield and Howley) chairs the board, as well as the central six community forum.

She said: “Feedback from the first consultation has already been used in the planning for the future processes of some of our major partners.

“It is heartening that the views of residents of the central six wards are now influencing the shape of our future.

“We are eagerly awaiting the final results of the second consultation.”

Under his remit as executive board portfolio holder for leisure and community, Cllr Tony Higgins (LAB – Fairfield and Howley) is responsible for the board.

He welcomed the progress and hailed residents for their efforts.

“When I created the central area neighbourhood renewal board, its main role was tasked to concentrate on our most deprived wards,” he added.

“It was vital that we worked with community groups and residents for a successful masterplan.

“The work undertaken by the central six in pulling much of this together has been invaluable in helping to shape the direction of the masterplan and I must thank all those involved.

“The high level of support from residents attending meetings and responding to public consultations is evidence that they all want to be part of this generational game-changing process.”