Maldon District Council has announced the submission of a bid for a share of the government’s Levelling Up Fund, as well as bidding for money from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The bid for levelling up funding is of just over £2.2 million and is aiming to focus on the Maldon and Heybridge Central Area Masterplan that has already been approved by the council. This will regenerate under-utilised assets that are owned by the council, to improve cultural, educational, and commercial opportunities.
Transport is also a key priority for this part of the bid, with the plan looking to increase connectivity, improve the safety of vehicles and pedestrians through segregation, as well as rejuvenating public spaces to maintain Hythe Quayside’s place as a visitor destination.
Councillor Penny Channer, Leader of Maldon District Council, said:
“If successful, both the Levelling Up Round 2 Bid, and our UKSPF investment plan give the council an opportunity to deliver a range of projects across the district for the benefit of our residents, visitors, and businesses alike. We look forward to hearing the outcome of both submissions later this year.”
The bid to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund is for £1 million and is looking to build on the investment themes of community and place, supporting local businesses, and people and skills. The aim of this funding is to help reduce cross-community inequalities, supporting the levelling up project.
The difference between the two methods of funding is that the UKSPF is not competitive, however it does require local authorities to submit an investment plan that allows the government to see how it addresses the needs of the area.
Both funds require the respective projects to be delivered by the end of March 2025.
