Published on Friday 10 February 2023
Residents will benefit from £4.2 million in funding, which is set to unleash potential across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
At cabinet this week, BCP Councillors approved a report outlining funding secured from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), a key part of the UK Government’s Levelling Up agenda.
Approval of the plan means delivery of 17 proposed interventions can begin shortly, backed by nearly £4.2m in the UKSPF funding allocated to BCP Council.
These interventions will:
Support local businesses through public realm improvements in district centres; free business support; a grants scheme covering business start-up and growth, exporting, R&D and carbon reduction; and support for the local tourism sector. These will help improve the local economic conditions and work towards achieving a world-class and sustainable region where businesses can thrive.
Develop communities and contribute towards BCP being one of the best coastal places in the world in which to live, work, invest and play. Initiatives will include improving our green spaces; supporting volunteering opportunities; community engagement support; improving community facilities; and community measures to reduce the cost of living.
Nurture talent by upskilling the workforce, enhancing employment opportunities and increasing business productivity through supporting economic inactive residents and improving basic skills, digital skills and ‘green’ skills.
Councillor Philip Broadhead, BCP Council’s Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Development, Growth and Regeneration, said:
"This funding shows how our huge ambitions are being harnessed to make a positive impact on all members of the community; securing investment to boost our development of a better place to live and a more vibrant economy to work in.
"Whether you enjoy our attractions, run a business and want it to grow, are looking for improvements to green spaces, want to see more community involvement or require a hand to develop digital skills, this funding is going to deliver real value to the people of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole."
More details on the UKSPF can be found here: www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus