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Blackpool: Levelling Up
29 November 2022
Lead MP
Scott Benton
Responding Minister
Felicity Buchan
Tags
TaxationCulture, Media & SportBenefits & WelfareLocal Government
Word Count: 3377
Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
Scott Benton raised concerns about blackpool: levelling up in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
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.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
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.
Paul Maynard
Con
Bexhill and Battle
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 Buchan
Government Response
The 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.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.