Prime Minister announces multi-million 'new deal' for East Midlands

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced a ‘new deal’ backed by £105.25 million to boost economic growth in the East Midlands.
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This comprehensive plan to ‘build, build, build’ will deliver upgrades to local infrastructure and boost skills in a move to fuel economic recovery in the East Midlands and across the whole of the UK.

The ‘new deal’ includes up to £95 million to fund shovel-ready projects across the East Midlands to help provide a boost to the local economy and create jobs.

This investment is being targeted on areas that are facing the biggest economic challenges as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.Mr Johnson said: “In those towns that feel left behind we have plans to invest in their centres, with new academy schools, new green buses, new broadband and we want to make them places where people have the confidence to stay, to raise their families, to start businesses, and not to feel that all the action is in the cities or in the metropolis.”

Boris Johnson has announced a major new investment plan for the East Midlands. Photo: Paul Ellis/WPA Pool/Getty ImagesBoris Johnson has announced a major new investment plan for the East Midlands. Photo: Paul Ellis/WPA Pool/Getty Images
Boris Johnson has announced a major new investment plan for the East Midlands. Photo: Paul Ellis/WPA Pool/Getty Images

Mr Johnson also announced that funding will be brought forward for 14 towns across the East Midlands to help them meet the immediate challenges they face due to the pandemic.

This fast-tracked investment will help areas kick-start activity in towns and high streets on projects like enhancing outdoor spaces, building cycle lanes or improving town centres.

In the autumn the government will also publish a national infrastructure strategy which will set a clear direction on core economic infrastructure, including energy networks, road and rail, flood defences and waste.

Simon Clarke MP, minister for regional growth and local government, commented: “As we have faced one of the most significant challenges of our time, this Government has stepped in to support our local businesses, public services and communities.

“But we have never lost sight of our mission to unite and level up and this support package shows we are more committed to that aim than ever.

“This announcement means £95 million extra for transport, broadband and skills in the East Midlands, and investment delivered faster for 14 towns.

“This is a real statement of intent as we work to get the East Midlands firing on all cylinders again.”