Levelling-up Fund: Rother Valley

Opened the debate

The Member for Rother Valley raised concerns about the lack of investment in his constituency's high streets, particularly Dinnington and Maltby. He emphasised that the levelling-up fund offers a chance to regenerate these areas, which have suffered from decades of neglect under Labour councils. Stafford highlighted the need for comprehensive regeneration plans, better transport links, improved broadband services, enhanced local amenities, and increased safety measures. The MP stressed the importance of local involvement in decision-making processes and called on Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council (RMBC) to prioritise all high streets within Rother Valley, not just those in central areas.

Government Response

The Minister congratulated Alexander Stafford for securing the debate and acknowledged the challenges faced by towns like Dinnington and Maltby. He detailed the Government’s commitment to levelling up through various initiatives, including the £27 billion investment in transport, energy, and digital communications announced at the spending review, as well as additional funding such as the £56 million welcome back fund and £5 billion restart scheme for businesses. The Minister also highlighted RMBC's eligibility for significant capacity funding to develop their levelling-up fund bid, and encouraged Stafford to work closely with his council on preparing a strong application by the deadline of 18 June. Additionally, he emphasised the potential of both the levelling-up fund and the UK community renewal fund to support economic recovery in Rother Valley.