Backing Byker

There will be an extensive process of consultation with residents to prioritise works to each neighbourhood and produce solutions which satisfy English Heritage but also tackle the problems facing residents on a day to day basis.

No, the type of investment planned by the Trust will include improvements to the District Heating scheme and substantial environmental improvements which will also benefit owner occupiers and leaseholders as well as tenants.

In addition to delivering many improvements to housing and the general environment on the Estate, the Trust is also committed to working with residents and community groups to improve life chances for everyone.

YHN will still deliver the services it does now on behalf of the Trust and the Board.

Yes. There will be a small team to work on behalf of the Trust. If you are interested in opportunities to work for the Trust, please contact us on 0800 5335 442 or go to the Jobs page to see current vacancies

Yes. All improvements to the Estate will protect its heritage value.

The main objective for the Trust is to invest in the Estate for the benefit of tenants and the details of this investment are set out in the Offer Document. The Trust will also work to improve the physical condition and management of non-residential buildings on the Estate. It will have regeneration objectives which will provide opportunities for local training and employment and also create opportunities for social enterprise to deliver services on the Estate.

The Trust board is made up of 13 people: 4 tenant members, 4 independent members, 2 City Council nominees, 1 YHN nominee and a co-optee.

We have agreed that the rents remain fixed to the Council rents, so initially they will not increase outside the normal rent increases set for YHN properties. There are more details on how this would work within the Offer Document.  All tenants received a letter in February 2012 advising of rent increases for 2012/ 13 which reflect this commitment.

Byker is a unique, Grade II* listed estate and in need of investment to update it. We think the Trust is the best way to make this happen. The Trust can also make a difference in other ways by helping to promote the work of community groups and be creating opportunities for training and employment to improve quality of life for residents.

The housing is expected to be transferred to the Trust in May 2012.