Scarborough town deal project 'reflection of hope' for future says Leader

The Leader of Scarborough Borough Council has described the first actions of the Town Deal project as a 'reflection of hope' for the future.

Cllr Steve Siddons said that, coupled with the council's Build a Better Borough project and other plans, they provided Scarborough with a new vision.

He welcomed the four initial Town Deal schemes which will introduce dozens of trees and planters in the town centre, vinyl wrapping of under-used premises, digital interactions and the first investments in a nature and sculptural trail.

The £750,000 projects, which are part of a bid for government funding of up to £25m under the Scarborough Town Deal, have been fast-tracked to be completed by next spring.

"These plans - and with much more to come, are part of a reflection of hope and re-assurance for the town and particularly for the town centre, especially with the retail and Covid challenges," said Cllr Siddons.

"The council and many people and groups are working hard to create a cleaner, greener environment that will make for a more attractive town centre and improved culture and heritage offer.

"We are on a determined course to improve the area as a premier visitor destination and to help encourage economic growth that benefits everyone."

A blueprint for the council’s priorities and services was agreed by councillors last month and will be based on feedback that showed the public wanted clean streets, better management of anti-social behaviour, more not fewer public toilets, clean beaches and action on littering.

The council has also embarked on plans to create more affordable homes to buy and rent within the borough.