A SERIES of projects are in line for government funding.
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) – part of the government’s upgrade program – was launched in April 2022 and £2,477,528 has been allocated to Barrow Borough Council.
Members of Barrow Borough Council’s executive committee noted that each of the seven programs is expected to receive a share of the allocated sum in its first year once funding is confirmed.
They include £78,657 for public realm improvements to Portland Walk in Barrow town centre.
Although Portland’s walking units are owned by a number of private owners, the funding would allow the council to improve the public realm to help encourage businesses to move in, improving the area for everyone.
Some of that money would also fund improvements in downtown Dalton.
An additional £52,913 would be used to create a dedicated bicycle storage facility, kitchen and toilets in the Boat House in Barrow Park as well as a dedicated bicycle storage facility at the Dock Museum.
Year one funding would also provide a tourism and heritage strategy for the Island of Piel, a feasibility study for the Dalton Leisure Center and the production of concept designs and delivery of a project called The Key to bring a employment support for economically inactive people in the local area. .
Councilor Lee Roberts, Deputy Leader of Barrow Borough Council and its Principal Member for Economic Development and Strategic Partnerships, said: ‘This money will fund the launch of a number of projects which will help deliver a wide range of benefits and opportunities in the borough. and its communities.
“We look forward to receiving funding so that these projects can get started, many through our partner agencies and organizations working in the borough.”
Consultations were undertaken with a range of stakeholders to establish a list of priorities for the region.
The second and third years of the plan would be carried out by the new Westmorland and Furness Council which will provide all services in the area from 1 April 2023, replacing Barrow Borough Council, South Lakeland District Council, Eden District Council and Cumbria County Council.
