Leyland town centre is to see ‘radical’ changes, thanks to a successful Town Deal bid to Central Government, with the board securing the full £25 million available.

The project has already seen £13m contributed by South Ribble Borough Council, and with the government’s funding allocation, the total regional investment will reach £38 million. The Leyland Town Deal Board, which includes representatives from private sector businesses, education, public, community and voluntary sectors, submitted the bid in October 2020, and the project can now progress.

The Town Deal will see improvements to the town centre, with the refurbishment of Leyland Market, new residential properties and a new business and skills hub. The plans boost business and skills and create jobs for local people during the construction and within new commercial facilities.

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Councillor Paul Foster, the leader of South Ribble Borough Council, said: “We are absolutely delighted that we have been awarded the £25 million for this project. The plans were radical and ambitious and will provide for the delivery of desperately needed affordable homes for our local families, new business units and an overdue refurbishment for the Leyland Market.

“We have worked tirelessly to ensure this investment wasn’t lost in the turbulent waters of Central Government, and the role of the council and our team has been pivotal. I’m so proud that we were able to create a really compelling case for Leyland.

“I want to thank everyone who has been involved in getting us to this stage; it is only by the board’s work to drive this project forward and the support of our local residents and businesses that this bid has been the success it has. I look forward now to the project progressing!”

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The Town Deal has been to local residents and businesses for consultation, and a successful ‘Meet the Buyer’ event has engaged local contractors and other construction-based firms. Planners have submitted designs, and the following steps will be appointing contractors and engaging with businesses impacted by the works.

Charles Hadcock DL, the chair of Leyland Town Deal, said: “We are delighted that it is now ‘full steam ahead’ for Leyland Town Deal, and the £25m of funding has received the go-ahead. It is great to move to the next stage of the project.

“The Leyland Town Deal plans have developed following a lot of consultation with businesses and residents. There will also be opportunities for local businesses to get involved in the construction phase of the schemes following the meet the buyer events earlier this year.”

For more information, visit – www.leylandtowndeal.com

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