House of Commons · Westminster Hall
29 November 2022 · 1 other contributor · 3,377 words
Opened by Scott Benton Ind Blackpool South
Responding minister: Felicity Buchan
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Scott Benton raised concerns about blackpool: levelling up in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
Benton asks for £30 million to address housing-led regeneration projects and £63 million from the levelling-up fund. He also requests support for upgrading the South Fylde line to double train capacity and restoring commercial passenger flights at Blackpool airport.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Scott Benton is concerned about the persistent regional disparities in Blackpool, which ranks highest on multiple deprivation indices and has the lowest life expectancy among local authorities in England. He cites high rates of drug-related deaths, crime, obesity, teenage pregnancy, and a significant learning gap for children. The MP highlights the town's struggle with housing conditions in grot-spots and the private rental market.
Praised Business in the Community for their work through Pride of Place to address issues in Blackpool. Urged the Government to reinstate the Cabinet Sub-Committee on Blackpool.
Government Response
Felicity BuchanThe Minister outlined the Government's levelling-up agenda, highlighting £237 million in additional funding for Blackpool and £409 million under covid support. She mentioned a new court complex freeing up land for redevelopment, a DWP service hub creating jobs, and £40 million from the towns fund for tourism-boosting projects. The Minister also discussed improving housing provision with Homes England's £650,000 funding and tackling rogue landlords through private rented sector reform.