Torbay leaders talk regeneration in Westminster

Plans to regenerate communities were discussed by the Deputy Prime Minister and local leaders — including from Torbay —  in London today, Tuesday 10 June.

The government’s £1.5 billion Plan for Neighbourhoods, announced in March, supports 75 communities throughout the UK with £20 million each over the next decade. 

Torquay is the only town in the South West to receive this funding, which the council says will bring meaningful change to local communities over the next decade, tackling deprivation and accelerating growth.

High streets, housing, local parks, youth clubs, cultural venues, libraries and health and wellbeing services are all in scope for regeneration that will improve lives and put more money in local people’s pockets.

With all 75 areas having recently confirmed the chairs of their Neighbourhood Boards, Angela Rayner met them  at Central Hall in Westminster and urged them to use government funding to address local priorities.  The event also enabled leaders to share experiences.

Neighbourhood boards are responsible for engaging the wider community to develop tailored plans that “deliver the change people need and deserve”, the government said.

Ms Rayner said:  “People deserve to feel pride in the places where they live and work. But in far too many communities, years of neglect have left people feeling left behind and forgotten.  

“That’s why we launched our Plan for Neighbourhoods – to fix the foundations of our communities. 

“We’re empowering local leaders - talented people from the world of business, charities, and campaigning - to address local priorities, drive growth and boost opportunities up and down the country, as part of the Plan for Change.” 

Minister for Building Safety, Fire and Local Growth Alex Norris said: “We’re kickstarting a decade of national renewal by backing local leaders with the funding and support they need to invest in the things that matter most to local people. 

“Neighbourhood Boards and their Chairs are right at the heart of that mission. They know their areas inside out and will have all our support as they get to work delivering change in their communities.”