Bassetlaw is set to undergo a major transformation with a £20 million boost allocated for regeneration projects aimed at revitalizing local towns, addressing anti-social behavior,
and refurbishing community centers. This funding, part of a broader £400 million regeneration initiative, will also enhance educational and health services in the area, providing new and improved facilities for the community.
Levelling Up Minister Jacob Young hailed the announcement as a significant milestone for Bassetlaw, emphasizing the government's commitment to fostering positive change and creating opportunities for local residents. The investment builds upon previous funding efforts and reflects ongoing collaboration between government bodies and local leaders to advance the region's development agenda.
The investment package includes:
- £14 million for the redevelopment of old print rooms in Worksop, a vacant retail unit in Priory Shopping Centre, and a derelict site in Harworth & Bircotes, aimed at establishing a new education center, NHS health and wellbeing facility, and community hub.
- £3 million allocated for streetscaping projects in Retford, Worksop, and Tuxford town centers to enhance accessibility and address anti-social behavior.
- £1.5 million earmarked for the renovation of derelict land in Worksop to create a community farm shop.
- £1 million allocated for the redevelopment of Retford Town Hall into a new community space, including a banking hub, and £150,000 for investment in Manton Children's Centre to serve as a Family Hub supporting local families.
- £120,000 provided to support local skills scoping work and strategic planning for the arrival of the STEP project, aimed at maximizing economic opportunities in the area.
- £100,000 allocated for studies to improve town centers in Bassetlaw, aligning with preparations for the arrival of STEP.
This investment complements previous funding initiatives, including contributions from the Levelling Up Fund, UK Shared Prosperity Fund, and the Long-Term Plan for Towns. The collaboration between Bassetlaw District Council and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities underscores a shared commitment to identifying and implementing projects that address the region's most pressing needs.
James Naish, Leader of Bassetlaw District Council, welcomed the investment as a catalyst for positive change and expanded opportunities for residents across the district. The range of projects, spanning various communities within Bassetlaw, aims to create a more vibrant and prosperous environment conducive to living, working, and doing business.
Ben Bradley, Leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of initiatives like Family Hubs in supporting local communities and bolstering the economy. Bassetlaw's inclusion in the Levelling Up Partnerships program underscores its significance as one of 20 areas receiving tailored support for regeneration and development.
As the government continues to collaborate with Levelling Up Partnership areas nationwide, Bassetlaw stands poised to benefit from ongoing efforts to promote growth, resilience, and prosperity. Photo by Steve Cadman, Wikimedia commons.