THE life of a community pioneer will be remembered for years to come, after a street he loved will be named in his honour.

Leo Ryan, 75, provided a voice for local residents through the Hartlepool New Deal for Communities (NDC) programme, until his death two years ago.

He had lived in the town for more than 50 years, and was instrumental in the Community Housing Plan, a regeneration initiative in which older terrace housing in the area is being replaced by quality modern properties.

His memory was honoured yesterday, as his widow, Millie, laid a commemorative stone on the Ryan Court development.

Mrs Ryan said: "I am extremely proud that Leo will be remembered in this way. He was very passionate about the area, and felt that the Community Housing Plan would bring a positive change for local residents.

"I hope that once the bungalows are completed, people will look upon Ryan Court and remember the hard work that Leo gave as a volunteer in the town."

Ryan Court will replace what was known as Angus Street. Demolition of the street began in September, to make way for the bungalows, four of which are adapted for wheelchair use.

Charlie Hughes, chief executive of Endeavour Housing Association, said: "None of this would have happened without the engagement of the community, so it is also an appropriate time to remember Leo Ryan.

"Leo cared about people in this community deeply, and had the vision and courage to see there were decisions to be taken. Leo's contribution to ensuring that right decisions were taken and progress made was enormous."

More than 347 properties have been successfully acquired by Hartlepool Revival on two sites in the central area of the town.

The Ryan Court development is the next step in plans by Yuill Homes to build a range of high-specification family homes on both sites.

Steve Jackson, head of partnership development at Yuill Homes, said: "Thanks to the hard work and commitment of people like Leo, these two sites are about to undergo an exciting transformation, creating thriving new neighbourhoods with smart new houses and proud new communities."