AN INITIATIVE to help regenerate communities in Wales has been enthusiastically welcomed by First Minister Rhodri Morgan.

The Regeneration Institute in Cardiff University brings together academic experts, local authorities, development agencies, professional bodies and communities themselves. Mr Morgan said: "I look forward to a strong working relationship that will enable us to develop policies that will meet the needs of Wales."

Professor Kevin Morgan, director of the Regeneration Institute, said: "There is a lot of technical expertise in higher education institutions in Wales.

"This is a way that Cardiff University in particular can put that expertise at the disposal of communities.

"The institute will be a resource for local communities in their efforts to promote regeneration.

"It will be a focus for academic and policy-related research, ranging from local communities in Wales to localities, cities and regions in Europe and the wider world. "It is fitting that Wales should have such a Regeneration Institute, which allows academics to pursue high-quality research and to help our communities become healthier."