£80m funding destined for high streets in Yorkshire and Humber

Seven areas across Yorkshire and the Humber are set to receive a funding boost through the Future High Streets Fund, the Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick has announced.

In a milestone for the Government’s levelling up agenda, this £831m investment, which was announced in December 2020, will now help a total of 72 areas across England to implement ambitious local plans to improve transport infrastructure, build new homes and transform underused spaces.

As pubs, cinemas, bowling alleys and more open up this week across the region, this funding is designed to provide a boost for high streets as they welcome shoppers and visitors back.

 Sheffield, Elland, Northallerton, Rotherham, Halifax, Barnsley, Scunthorpe and Grimsby will each receive funding in recognition of the proposals they have developed, including:

• £6.31m of funding will deliver free Wi-Fi for shoppers and visitors in Elland. The South Gate square will also be improved, making it a better place for people to meet and socialise.  The town will also benefit from a new community space for local groups to use.
• £17.28m for Grimsby will create a new multiplex cinema and market food hall, which hopes to boost visitor numbers to the town centre. A new public square and events space will be created bringing more vitality to the high street.

Local growth Minister, Luke Hall, said: “We are committed to boosting economic growth across the regions and helping high streets meet the needs of their communities for future generations to come.

“The Future High Streets Fund for Yorkshire and the Humber will help create exciting new spaces and facilities for residents and visitors to the region.

“New spaces for learning, shopping and community groups will encourage more people to come to Elland and new leisure facilities in Grimsby, will unlock employment opportunities and will encourage more people to visit.”

From improving transport and access into town centres to converting retail units into new homes, these plans are intended to deliver long-term impacts that drive growth and raise living standards.

The Future High Streets Fund was launched in December 2018 and is part of the Government’s plan to renew and reshape town centres – making them a more attractive place to live, work and visit.

Other funding allocations for the region:

Barnsley: £15,624,456

Halifax: £11,762,823

Northallerton: £6,085,013

Rotherham: £12,660,708

Scunthorpe: £10,675,323

In addition, Sheffield has previously received confirmed funding of £15.82m on Boxing Day.