Community hopes for levelling-up cash boost

Horden could be in line for a major cash boost after a bid was submitted to a Government scheme.

Local authorities across the UK are submitting applications for funding from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund.

Almost £100million has been requested by Durham County Council for a range of initiatives across the county for each of its five parliamentary constituencies.

In Easington, an appeal has been made for money to focus on there generation of H or den.

If approved, this would include using previously developed or formerly industrial ‘brown field land’ to build social housing, as well as the creation of a nature reserve and woodland plantation.

It is also hoped that street improvements could encourage greater use of public transport and other sustainable methods, such as walking and cycling.

The authority has also pledged more than £12.4million from its own coffers in match funding towards the scheme.

The county council has previously been awarded £20 million for works in Bishop Auckland from the fund.

Cllr James Rowlandson, cabinet member for resources,investment and assets, said: “We are delighted to have submitted our five funding bids this week. We are committed to regenerating our communities and seeking the very best outcomes for our residents and this funding will support these ambitious aims.

“Having already secured £20 million for our Bishop Auckland constituency, we are really excited at the prospect of delivering schemes worth a further £131million across the rest of the county.”

The outcomes of the funding bids are expected to be announced in the autumn.