RESIDENTS in Frenchwood, Preston, have been invited to the launch of a multi-million pound renewal programme which will see a massive facelift for the neighbourhood.

The launch comes on the back of the latest grant of £2.6million secured by Avencentral Partnership, supported by the Northwest Development Agency.

The money will be ploughed into resurfacing roads and property repairs around Manchester Road, and talks are underway between Preston City and Lancashire County Councils to install alleygates.

It is the latest stage in The Frenchwood Renewal Programme which covers the area from Oxford Street to Brockholes View. It aims to renovate the area by making home and environmental improvements, installing traffic calming while reducing crime.

Secretary of Frenchwood Community Association, Kait Duerden, said: "It's great that we have the money and the community really needs to get involved so that they are part of the project.

"I've lived here for 14 years and am delighted that it's getting a boost. We are in a great location and have needed investment for many years." And area renewal scheme leader at the city council, Ian Milnes, said: "We have resurfaced a number of back streets already and we plan to continue with the work. People have expressed concern about the gas and electric supplies in their homes and we have been offering free checks to identify faults."

Frenchwood was declared a renewal area last year and funds have been secured from various sources, including the single regeneration budget.

The launch takes place on Saturday December 13, between 11am and 3pm at Frenchwood Community Primary School, Frenchwood Knoll.