REGENERATION FUNDING FOR KIDSGROVE IS A BIG DEAL

Ambitious proposals to deliver an unprecedented regeneration programme in Kidsgrove can now become a reality following confirmation of a once in a lifetime funding opportunity.

The town is receiving £16.9 million from the Government’s Town Deal Fund for a range of major projects to make it a more desirable place to work, live, visit and invest .

The announcement was made by Chancellor Rishi Sunak as part of his budget which outlined more than £1 billion to help create jobs and drive growth in 45 areas across the country. Investment priorities – developed following extensive consultation with residents – will create almost 1,500 temporary jobs, 2,000 permanent jobs and approximately £80 million of operational gross value added (GVA) per year. They focus on driving growth and opportunity through enhanced enterprise infrastructure; creating a connected and accessible town centre which links key assets, retains heritage, promotes active travel and drives new demand and footfall; and maximising leisure and recreational opportunities by:

Bringing forward the development of Chatterley Valley West, a 38-hectare strategic employment site within the Ceramic Valley Enterprise Zone.

A new station building and transport interchange at Kidsgrove Railway Station, including a ticket office, back office facilities, toilets, retail space, communal areas and a 200-space car park to meet the needs of increased demand and capitalise on the longer-term opportunity presented by HS2. This includes improved access to the adjacent Trent and Mersey Canal.

Further financial support – on top of that already provided by the Council – to refurbish and reopen Kidsgrove Sports Centre under community management.

Improvements to the canal network to create a safe and attractive corridor, an off-road alternative for residents and visitors.

A shared modern hub, bringing together public sector organisations for improved access to services, together with new housing for older people and a wider programme of land assembly to increase footfall.

More improvements at Clough Hall Park and Newchapel Recreation Ground.Our long-term vision is to create a dynamic and well-connected town that capitalises on its location, strategic employment sites and heritage and leisure assets – including the canal network – to forge a reputation as an attractive, welcoming and successful town which is a desirable place for residents, businesses and visitors, by 2030

The announcement is on top of the advanced funding totalling £750,000 to boost residents’ health and well-being. This money is being used to fund the stripping out and early works associated with the refurbishment of the sports centre; fill a gap in match funding to guarantee the delivery of modern leisure facilities for the King’s School and the community; provide a series of initial improvements at Clough Hall Park including the refurbishment of the main pavilion; and install a pump track at Newchapel recreation ground

It’s all going on in Kidsgrove. Exciting times!Read more here https://bit.ly/309AP3J

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