'Significant' government investment set to level up Blyth

People across Blyth are set to benefit from significant government investment to level up the town by upgrading poor quality housing, tackling health inequalities, improving access to local jobs and cutting crime, delivering on the Prime Minister’s priorities to grow the economy and spread opportunity across the country.

The wide-ranging package of interventions from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities comes just weeks after the government and local leaders signed the historic North East devolution deal.

Despite its significant economic potential, with thousands of new local jobs expected in its green energy industries in the coming years, Blyth is the most deprived town in Northumberland. It has now been earmarked for millions of pounds of investment to support its transition from a coal exporting town to a leading clean energy port.

With this tailored package, the government aims to tackle the complex barriers holding Blyth back and unlock a major programme of regeneration for the 40,000 people living in the area. It follows similar bespoke packages in Grimsby and Blackpool, and forms part of DLUHC’s ‘deep dive’ programme, working in partnership with local leaders and businesses to target investment and address the unique challenges of deprived towns.

As with North East Lincolnshire and Blackpool, Northumberland was one of the areas identified in the Levelling Up White Paper as the most left behind in the country.

The additional funding announced today takes DLUHC’s investment in Blyth to over £56m since 2019.

Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove said: “For too long, Blyth has been deprived of the opportunities to make the most of its startling potential. Deeply entrenched issues require an ambitious solution, which is why we have worked closely with local leaders on a package of measures that will improve the lives of the local community.

“Through revitalising dilapidated housing, upskilling the next generation and cracking down on crime, this town is finally getting the attention and investment it deserves to ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”

Councillor Glen Sanderson, leader of Northumberland County Council, said: “This is a significant investment and fantastic news for Blyth. It means we can deliver better homes, improve neighbourhoods and reduce crime in partnership with Northumbria Police, local businesses and the community.

“Today’s announcement boosts the multi-million-pound investment already planned through the council’s Energising Blyth Programme and Northumberland Line meaning we can now go further to realise Blyth’s huge potential at the heart of the Northumberland and the North East economy.”

This announcement builds on major Government investment to level up Blyth. This includes a £20.9m Town Deal and over £11m through the Future High Streets Fund for transport, cultural and regeneration projects.

By Mark Adair – Correspondent, Bdaily

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