THE £5MILLION awarded for cultural projects across Redditch has been ‘provisionally’ withdrawn after the government budget announcement last week.
The cash allocated in the spring budget from the previous government’s Levelling Up Fund was aimed at supporting arts and culture projects across the borough.
Redditch Borough Council leader, Coun Joe Baker, said he was disappointed the funds had been withdrawn, adding he would be asking the government to reconsider.
“The previous Government had set aside the funding, however we have always known this has been under review and not guaranteed.
“We did consider this money was vital to our communities and to the groups and organisations which were going to use these funds to enhance and improve our local area and the cultural opportunities available.
“Therefore, positively, we will use the consultation process offered by Government to put forward our case for the funds to be reconsidered for Redditch.”
Redditch MP Chris Bloore said he was disappointed with the decision.
“I’m angry the previous government made a series of irresponsible unfunded funding pledges, knowing they hadn’t put a single penny aside to deliver.
“However, we shouldn’t be surprised – the same can be said about their failed promises to Infected Blood or Post Office Horizon Scandals victims and their abject failure to deliver fit-for-purpose public services.
“Last week, the Budget pledged historic investment to end the scandal of Redditch residents waiting up to a year for an operation, ensuring you can see a doctor when they need it, rebuilding our schools and providing an extra £1billion in funding to start the process of rebuilding our SEND system that is failing our children.
“I will work closely with the government to deliver these improvements and with Redditch Borough Council to ensure our fantastic cultural and creative sectors are at the heart of our vision for a vibrant and dynamic town.”
Former MP Rachel Maclean campaigned for the increase in investment, and said she was now worried about the £15.6million Town Deal.
She said: “The government managed to raise taxes by £40billion, but somehow we’re somehow led to believe they can’t find £5million for Redditch.
“I worked tirelessly to secure millions of pounds of investment and it’s taken this Labour government just four months to take it away.
“Is this really the change people voted for? Given the local Labour Party’s dire record when it comes to securing investment, I’ve little confidence they’ll be able to convince their own government to reverse their decision, but I will remain hopeful as it’s in the best interests of everyone in Redditch that we get this funding.”
