An application has been made for European Regional Development Fund funding for this work as part of the REECH Initiative. The award of the contract is subject to this application for the funding being approved.

A requirement of the scheme will be to comply with ERDF requirements. Failure to do so may result in the withdrawal of funding.

The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), managed by the Department for Communities and Local Government, is making a real difference to people and businesses in the Northwest. The current programme, which is worth EUR755m, is enhancing the competitiveness of the region's economy by supporting growth in enterprise and employment.

For more information visit www.gov.uk/browse/business/funding-debt/european-regional-development-funding REECH (Renewables and Energy Efficiency in Community Housing) is a European Regional Development Fund funded project aimed at improving energy efficiency in some of the most deprived communities in the Liverpool City Region.

Working with Registered Social Landlords throughout the City Region, and managed by Sefton Council, REECH will provide a range of low carbon technologies in over 2 000 homes at a cost of 17 000 000 GBP. It is envisaged that the increased demand for green technologies will provide new business opportunities for local suppliers and contractors working in the green energy sector.

The programme is funded by the European Regional Development Fund, Sefton BC, Liverpool LCC, St Helens MBC, Knowsley MBC, Wirral MBC, Halton BC, Liverpool Mutual Homes, Plus Dane, Helena Partnership, Villages Housing, Your Housing, One Vision Housing and Regenda.

For further information please contact the REECH Team on +44 1519344619.

Initial expressions of interest are invited from potential providers wishing to carry out a contract for the external thermal cladding, external wall repairs and associated works to 271 properties within the St Helens area. Solar hot water will also be installed to approximately 147 of these properties.