Festive funding boost for Crewe regeneration plans

Crewe’s future has received a festive boost after the government announced its funding support for several new projects that will pave the way for further town centre regeneration.

Cheshire East Council has received an ‘in principle’ offer of £14.1m to be invested in the town over the next three years. This follows by a bid by the Council to the Government’s Future High Streets Fund last summer.

Councillor Nick Mannion, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for environment and regeneration, said: “This is great news for Crewe, as well as Cheshire East as a whole, and demonstrates that government and our local partners have confidence in our shared regeneration plans for the town centre.

"To be awarded funding via the Future High Streets Fund is a real achievement considering the strong competition from across the country.

He added: “This announcement comes hot on the tails of other projects that have taken a huge leap forward in recent months, including the redevelopment of Crewe Market Hall, which reopens in the spring, and the ongoing demolition of the vacant shops at the Royal Arcade.”

Nationally, 101 towns bid for funding, which totalled more than was available via the Future High Streets Fund.

It means that most towns – including Crewe – have been allocated a reduced amount to focus on key priorities.  

The council will now evaluate which projects from its shortlist will be taken forward and more information will be announced in the coming weeks.  

Doug Kinsman, chair of Crewe Town Board, said: “Securing this funding is a timely boost for Crewe, but it only forms part of our plans for the biggest investment that Crewe has ever seen.  

"We’re currently working with partners to develop a Town Investment Plan, which we hope will pave the way for a further £25m of investment in regeneration projects across the town over the next five years.”