Towns Fund

2020-11-16

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Questions & Answers

Q1 Partial Answer

Stockton West

▸ Context

The Government announced seven town deal offers worth almost £180 million on 27 October, including for Thornaby in the questioner's constituency.

What progress have the Government made on the towns fund? Of particular interest is the announcement of further deals, specifically mentioning Thornaby in my constituency. I am currently working alongside councillors, businesses and community groups to put together Thornaby's bid for up to £25 million to get rid of blights like the Eagle hotel, improve training and skills opportunities, leisure facilities, cycle routes, and housing.

Luke Hall

Absolutely. The objective of the towns deals is to drive economic regeneration through improving transport and digital infrastructure, supporting skills development and using planning powers effectively. Each town aligns its proposed interventions with the framework set out in further guidance to support mixed-use redevelopment.

▸ Assessment & feedback

Specific help or commitment to unblock bureaucratic barriers for Thornaby's bid was not provided

Response accuracy

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Q2 Partial Answer

Matt Vickers Con

Stockton West

▸ Context

The Government announced seven town deal offers worth almost £180 million on 27 October, including for Thornaby in the questioner's constituency. The focus is on aligning with local needs and overcoming bureaucratic barriers.

We are working closely to put together Thornaby's bid for up to £25 million aimed at getting rid of blights like the Eagle hotel, enhancing training opportunities, leisure facilities, cycle routes, and making housing improvements. Does my hon. Friend agree that local people know their area best? Will he help unblock any bureaucratic barriers preventing money from being spent on local priorities?

Luke Hall

The objective of the towns deals is to drive economic regeneration through improving transport and digital infrastructure, supporting skills development and using planning powers effectively. Each town aligns its proposed interventions with the framework set out in further guidance.