4:20pm Thursday 11th December 2008
TRANSFORMING Wharf Green has earned Swindon Council millions of pounds of extra Government funding.
Government growth point funding is dished out to towns experiencing rapid growth and goes towards developing infrastructure – such as schools, roads and doctors’ surgeries.
In the latest round of funding, Swindon Council had been expecting around £6.9m – but Government has instead earmarked the town for more than £9.9m. It is expected that some of the cash will go on improving public spaces in the town centre.
Councillor Phil Young, cabinet member for economic development, said: “This is a vote of confidence in Swindon by the Government.
“We have proven we can deliver. We delivered Wharf Green on time and proved that we can spend money wisely.
“What we want to do is create an economy that will sustain employment for the people that will move into the new homes being created around Swindon.
“Whilst we would argue that we need more funding for infrastructure this is certainly a step in the right direction.
“And we welcome any additional investment that comes into Swindon – be it from Government or private companies.”
Housing Minister Margaret Beckett said: “This money is targeted at those local authorities with the most ambitious growth plans “As well as helping to build the new homes we need, it will ensure we have the support and infrastructure in place so that these homes become part of the existing community, not a burden on their resources.”
Councillor Young said: “We want to make the town centre really work for people.
“So we are looking to spend this money in the town centre and its surrounds.
“Potentially that could mean a bridge over the railway line to join up the two sides of the town centre.
“Or it could be investment in the public realm, such as on Canal Walk, and areas like that, which separate the town.
“But this is for infrastructure – not just roads that go into areas where homes will be built, but in projects that will support the town centre development.”
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