£19.3m funding boost a 'landmark moment' for Newhaven
The money will go towards a range of projects in the town
A £19.3 million Government funding award for Newhaven is being hailed as a ‘landmark moment’ in the history of the town.
The windfall has been awarded from the Towns Fund following a successful bid from the Town Deal Board.
The successful bid focused on five core themes: A thriving and vital southern gateway for the UK, Celebrating the energy of industry, Valuing creative freedom, Re-imagining the town centre as a focus for community life, Making the most of the town’s maritime heritage.
Councillor James MacCleary, the leader of Lewes District Council and one member of the Town Deal Board, said:
“Newhaven is a wonderful town that is bursting with potential. We all want to see the town get the attention it deserves.
"This is undoubtedly a landmark moment for Newhaven and one that builds on the success we’ve had for attracting other funding recently.
“I would like to thank my colleagues on the Town Deal Board and council officers who together ensured our bid showcased exactly why Newhaven has so much untapped potential.
“This fund will be making a difference across the town. I have two young children who will be growing up here so it is exciting for me personally to know that we’re investing in their futures and those of everyone growing up in our town.”
In accordance with the government’s funding criteria, council officers will now prepare and submit a detailed business case for each project in Newhaven.
The government will then scrutinise the plans prior to releasing the funds. This process could take up to 12 months to complete for some of the development proposals.
Maria Caulfield, MP for Lewes, said:
“The Town Deal board, led by Chris Ketley and supported by Peter Sharp and his team from the council, have worked with us to secure this government funding which will finally see the regeneration the town has needed for decades.
“We are already seeing the green shoots take off with the opening of the Range store in the town and the improvements taking place at the entrance to the port.
"This shows by putting party politics aside and working together we can achieve great results and there is more to come with future bids to the government for Newhaven.”