REDDITCH has missed out on £20million of Government funding to revamp two run down community centres.
Redditch Borough Council applied to the Department of Levelling Up for the cash bounty to develop the Winyates and Matchborough centres and create new homes, shops and open space for the community.
The application was made last June, and in December Rachel Maclean MP wrote to Dehenna Davison, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Levelling Up, pressing her support for the bid and projects.
However, the original plan was met by protests from the community with shop owners dubious about the redevelopment.
They even started a petition which amassed 500 signatures.
Speaking to shoppers at both centres following the announcement, the overwhelming theme was one of relief.
One shop owner said: “I’m glad the bid was unsuccessful.
“It was worrying to have the threat of the centres being destroyed and replaced with God knows what.
“We welcome the buildings being repaired, new shop fronts and road re-surfacing but knocking buildings down is too far.
“I’d rather stick with the centre as the hub of the community, albeit it worn down, than not have it at all.”
Redditch Borough Council leader Coun Matt Dormer said: “It’s disappointing Redditch hasn’t made the list, we put forward what we thought was a really strong bid.
“We’re awaiting feedback and when we’re able to submit again.
“Redditch hasn’t had funding since it became a new town, so it is a shame that we haven’t made the list in this instance.”
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak yesterday claimed this latest round of funding would ‘build a future of optimism’ by delivering economic growth and new jobs across the UK.
His Richmond constituency received £19million for a town centre revamp, while Malvern received £19million for an outdoor theatre and new studio.
Coun Joe Baker, Redditch Labour leader, said: “I am disappointed that, once again, Redditch has been left short and, in this case has completely been left out of Government funding despite the promises of the Prime Minister and Rachel Maclean MP.
“I can only feel empathy for our residents who would have benefited from the funding and what it could have achieved.”
