PLANS to improve the quality of life in some of the most deprived North-East communities were given a boost yesterday with the unlocking of millions of pounds in Government cash.

Regeneration Minister Sally Keeble visited the region to unveil the latest stage of Neighbourhood Management Pathfinders which will drive forward much-needed changes.

Her visit marked the release of £1.5m of funding during the next three years for each neighbourhood manager to start meeting the needs of residents in Stockton, Derwentside.

The Easington pathfinder has been given time to fine-tune its delivery plans.

Making the announcement at the Stanley Green Corridor Pathfinder at Quaking Houses, Derwentside, Sally Keeble said: "Neighbourhood managers will make a real difference to the community by providing a one-stop service for residents needs.

"They will re-focus local services around the priorities of the neighbourhoods.

"In Derwentside, there is a clear, community-led plan which has identified issues that matter to residents.

"This is just the beginning of the hard work for all pathfinders, which will bring challenges as well as successes."

The managers of neighbourhood pathfinder areas will bring together local agencies to offer integrated solutions to housing, health, crime, unemployment and environmental problems.

Pathfinders in Derwentside and Stockton are among 12 nationwide to access funding from April 2 to implement their plans.

The plans have been assessed by Government offices, to ensure strong foundations to deliver lasting change are in place.

Stanley Green Corridor Neighbourhood Management Partnership chairman Brian Croft said: "I am absolutely delighted that this pathfinder money will help revitalise the area.

"All the people involved have worked so hard and today's announcement is just the incentive we need to get rid of apathy and transform the area into a more desirable place to live."

Mr Croft said a manager had yet to be appointed to run the scheme, covering South Stanley, South Moor and Craghead.

Among the ideas introduced already is a talking penguin - an innovative bird-shaped litter bin that uses a sensor to activate a speaking mechanism when someone approaches.

It will be introduced in schools.