MORE cash can be won for key worker housing projects in Hertfordshire, according to St Albans MP Kerry Pollard.

Mr Pollard called a meeting with district councils, housing associations and other interested parties to discuss the problem on Friday, November 2.

Hertfordshire asked the Government for £22 million but will get just £2.35 million, significantly less than neighbouring authorities, although housing needs for key workers, such as nurses and teachers, are just as great or even greater, the MP claimed.

Those at the meeting discussed how to improve the county's next bid in January and sought advice from the Housing Corporation.

The corporation's regional director of housing investment Mr Nick Reed leads the department which approves the applications which are submitted to the housing minister.

He said bidders should be aware of guidelines and ensure proposed schemes consider external issues such as supporting the rural community and value for money.

Speaking after the meeting, Mr Pollard said: "I am sure that, with this advice and new information, we will be able to attract improved funding in the future."

He was also due to meet housing minister Lord Falconer on Wednesday, November 7, to push for improved subsidies and discuss the possibility of rented housing for key workers.

Speaking beforehand, he said: "I want to impress on Lord Falconer two things - first that we need more money for key worker housing.

"The second is that when developers come along and say they want to build key worker housing, that it doesn't take the place of social housing."

November 8, 2001 18:30