HOUSING chiefs in Bolton are celebrating after being awarded an extra £2 million by the Government.

The spending boost creates a total funding windfall for the borough's housing of £17.8 million, an increase of about 11 per cent.

Part of the rise is a reward for what assessors from Government Office North West described as "well above average" management of the town's housing stock.

Bolton largely lost out to neighbouring authorities such as Salford for funding from the newly-established major repairs allowance. It was felt their high numbers of high-rise flats needed the most urgent attention.

But extra money awarded to mark the town being awarded "band one status" - putting it among the best councils for housing - more than makes up for missing out.

The council was praised for its understanding of housing demand in Bolton, the focus on improving targeted estates, reliable repairs and involving tenants in decision-making.

Cllr Noel Spencer, executive member for housing, said: "It's a glowing assessment. Our housing strategy has received quite a lot of praise and it's something we renew and review every year.

"Though we are disappointed with the way the major repairs allowance was set up we are delighted overall."

Cllr Spencer said when money collected through rent was taken into account, the amount available for the coming financial year would be more than £20 million.

He praised housing department staff for their role in helping Bolton to "band one" status for the ninth year running.

"Once you have reached that sort of level you have to work even harder to stay there," he said. "We recognise that there are big challenges ahead and we will not be complacent."

Most of the council's housing budget will go towards maintaining its own properties but some will go on private sector renewal schemes, where home-owners can obtain grants covering part of the cost of refurbishing their homes.