THE standard of life in Partington is set to improve now the area has been designated as a Health Action Zone development site.

The Health Action Zone (HAZ), which covers Manchester, Salford and Trafford, is providing funds in the region of £200,000 for a number of projects in the area.

The money will be used by the Single Regeneration Budget (SRB) team to address a number of issues affecting Partington.

The development manager for HAZ in Partington, Mark Ferguson, said: "There are some real inequalities in the Partington area.

"The mortality rate in the area is 50 per cent higher than in Sale, which is only a few miles away. There are some serious issues which need to be addressed, but there are a lot of reasons to be positive."

A meeting was held last month between HAZ board members and Partington residents. It highlighted a number of problems in the region which affected their health.

Residents pointed out the area was extremely isolated, with poor public transport and a lack of job opportunities. They also complained that the pubs in the town had closed, leaving the community with very few places to meet.

A community cafe is planned for the town, which will develop innovative ways of linking people with lifelong learning and health services in a social setting.

The cafe will provide a range of activities, including lessons about healthy food.

HAZ is also working with other agencies to tackle issues such as school nutrition and dental health.

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