NEW signs have been put up in Accrington to signify Hyndburn Council's commitment to regenerating the town's rundown housing.

The signs, at either end of Blackburn Road, have been erected in conjunction with Elevate, the organisation managing the Government-funded housing market renewal scheme across the area.

The council believes that 2006 will be a very significant year for the regeneration of West Accrington and Church.

Work should begin on the building of 400 new homes and health facilities.

Other houses will benefit from a programme of refurbishment and improvements.

Council leader Coun Peter Britcliffe welcomed the signs, saying: "The signs signify the council's commitment to the neighbourhood."