Building a better future by attracting new jobs, businesses, and opportunities
I'm absolutely delighted that the Chancellor has today announced in his Budget that the Government has committed over £24 million to fund our Stocksbridge Town Deal.
Stocksbridge is an industrial town with a proud history; this Town Deal will ensure it has a vibrant and prosperous future.
Currently, poor connectivity and a rundown town centre limit opportunity, particularly for young people. Through this town deal, they will benefit from being able to access post-16 education at a new centre in the town, as well as better sports facilities. The Manchester Road area will be brought back to life, with empty shops and derelict buildings renovated and linked directly to the successful Fox Valley retail centre by a new funicular railway.
I would like to thank everyone who has been part of the Town Deal project, and has helped to achieve this fantastic result. We must now focus on delivering a programme that can be truly transformative for Stocksbridge, Deepcar, and the surrounding area.
This is a clear vote of confidence in our area, and gives us the chance to build a better future by attracting new jobs, businesses, and opportunities to the town.
The Town Investment Plan that was submitted, not only prioritises investments that will attract new businesses and job opportunities, areas, but also focuses on improving local connectivity, supporting healthier lifestyles, opening up access to education and training, and promoting sustainability.
Our proposal will create a lasting legacy by re-focussing our economy, upgrading the physical fabric of our town, raising the aspirations of adults and young people and improving the health and wellbeing of our residents. The Towns Fund monies will strengthen existing community assets, encourage clean growth, and deliver new facilities which improve the town as a place to live, work and visit. I could not be more pleased.
