- Kate Griffiths MP welcomes the £22.8 million contribution to Burton town centre’s regeneration from the Government’s Towns Fund.
- Draft proposals will now be consulted on with residents, market traders and other stakeholders to ensure we get the best for Burton.
Levelling up the country and ensuring that no town is left behind is a key Government manifesto commitment.
Last week’s £22.8 million grant from the Government’s Towns Fund for Burton is a significant cornerstone to making good on that commitment, and bringing new opportunities into our town centre during the recovery from the pandemic.
The Market Hall, a much-loved focal point for the town, is set to receive a significant portion of this funding to return it to its Victorian splendour, and ensure it continues to play a prominent role in Burton’s future.
The town’s library facilities are also due a significant upgrade as the much-loved present building presents more and more maintenance challenges, and the new library at Lichfield has been held up as an example by local residents for other towns to follow.
Kate Griffiths MP commented:
“The Towns Deal funding given to Burton is a once in a lifetime opportunity for investment in our town centre, and to safeguard its future for generations to come. The draft proposals have allowed us to secure this huge investment from the Government, which is a great vote of confidence in our town and its future potential.
“For too many years, we’ve avoided dealing with the difficult questions in Burton—at times even talking down our prospects. Let’s have those involved conversations now.
“I sit on the Town Deal board to safeguard the interests of the Town and its residents—and to make sure that those residents are heard. I understand that there is much work to be done, and I hope everyone will engage in this big discussion over the coming year.
“My father was a market trader in Burton and I know the hard work those who work in the markets put in to their businesses. It is absolutely right that they are supported, and I look forward to working with them to ensure their futures are secured.
“I also want to hear from the Council about their aspirations for the existing library site and for the regeneration of the market square. The town wants to see exciting plans for these community spaces, and I will be listening to resident’s views over the coming months to ensure their suggestions are heard.
“A significant sum of money is now on the table, with the potential for it to be invested in our town.
“Let’s not squander this golden opportunity.”
