THE redevelopment of two sites in Hartlepool has moved a step closer.

Hartlepool Revival has officially signed over the projects to builders Yuill Homes.

The handover marks the next step forward in the completion of a multi-million pound housing regeneration initiative that will replace older terraced housing with high specification family homes.

After intensive consultations in 2001, residents voted for the demolition of more than 300 homes in the Mildred Street and Mayfair Street areas and documented their views for the future in a community housing plan.

Maurice Brazell, Hartlepool Revival board chairman, said: "This scheme will breathe new life into an area that has experienced the long-term problem of housing market decline.

"By handing over the site, we are working towards the vision that residents had in 2001, a vision which is shared by Hartlepool Revival, Hartlepool New Deal for Communities, and Yuill Homes."

Hartlepool Revival and Hartlepool New Deal for Communities (NDC) worked with residents to successfully acquire 335 out of 347 properties by agreement.

Ruth Kelly, the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, gave the go-ahead for compulsory purchase orders - which were applied for by Hartlepool Borough Council - on the remaining 12 properties in September last year, with the sites now ready for redevelopment.

Alexandra Ross, project manager for Hartlepool Revival, said: "We will continue to work with Yuill Homes throughout this development to ensure that residents' wishes are followed through the development contract."

Demolition of sites one and two will take place in May with the first homes available for purchase by the end of the year.

Steve Jackson, head of partnership development for Yuill Homes, said: "The handover of the site signals an exciting new phase of this major regeneration project and Hartlepool residents will begin to witness the tangible results of their hard work and determination to revitalise their neighbourhood.

"As smart new homes begin to take shape and residents begin to move in, thriving new communities will be created, an entire area will be transformed and the benefits will be felt across the whole town."