Glastonbury MP James Heappey says he is ‘delighted’ with the Government announcement that the town will receive half a million pounds as part of the kickstart funding allocated to towns chosen for the Towns Fund project.
The Towns Fund is targeted at areas with a proud heritage which have not always benefitted from economic growth.
The cash will help Glastonbury meet some of the immediate challenges it faces as a result of COVID-19 and invest in projects which will help improve the town centre.
These projects include: the establishment of the ‘Life Factory’ in Building C of the Red Brick Building, refurbishment of Glastonbury Town Centre, refurbishment of St Edmunds Hall and its grounds, as well as Herbie’s Field improvement and investment into the Glastonbury Ordnance Survey circular walk.
Mr Heappey said: “In what has been a really tough time for everyone, I am delighted to see the Government’s continued commitment to towns like Glastonbury. With one of the highest levels of depravation in the South West, this is extremely welcome.
“This accelerated cash from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government will ensure refurbishment projects in the town can go ahead, while also allowing for projects to be considered for the Towns Fund pot which is worth up to £25million.
“I am working closely with the other members of the Town Board to ensure Glastonbury can take full advantage of this huge Government supported opportunity.”
Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said: “Our Towns Fund will help to share prosperity across the country and level-up. This £80 million funding for immediate investment is a real boost for our towns and will help them thrive with investment in transport, technology, skills and culture.
“It will give towns across the opportunity to drive economic growth and improve prospects for their communities, which will be vital as the country respond to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. We are fully behind our high streets and will support local areas to build back better.”
