Redditch Borough Council miss out on government funding

Redditch Borough Council has been told that Redditch is not on the list of 55 local authorities chosen to receive funding from central government despite being named as a top priority area.

The latest news follows a public consultation carried out on council proposals, which would have seen outdated residential and commercial properties demolished and a new district centre built in Winyates containing retail, community and health facilities.  

Winyates District Centre (Image: Redditch Borough Council)

Council leader Matt Dormer said: “Whilst we’re hugely disappointed by the news as soon as we found out about the change in funding allocations, we advised our residents and local businesses immediately. 

“This isn’t the end of the road, and we will take some time now to meet with our architects to formulate a plan for both district centres.”

In Matchborough, the council had sought to transform the district centre into one new building with convenience stores, a charity shop and a takeaway as well as new two-storey apartments being created to the south of the centre.

The plans were set to be submitted in line with round three of the Government’s Levelling Up Fund. 

Matchborough District Centre (Image: Redditch Borough Council)

Cllr Dormer added: “We will be ready for any future round of public funding and indeed we will continue to explore each and every option available.

“I want to reassure Matchborough and Winyates residents that they will not be forgotten, and they continue to be a very important part of our plans to regenerate Redditch.”

The disappointment comes after Redditch also missed out on £20 million of Levelling Up funding from the government last year.

Residents and local businesses have been informed of the latest setback with council officers being made available to answer any questions.

For more information visit www.redditchbc.gov.uk