Town Centre Improvements A Step Closer Thanks To Government Cash

Improvements to Market Harborough town centre are a step closer after the District Council secured government funding of over £2.1m.

One million pounds will be put towards the delivery of the Market Harborough and Lutterworth town centre masterplans, which include improving cycling and walking infrastructure.

Cllr Phil King, Leader of Harborough District Council, spoke to HFM:

Market Harborough Town Centre Pic: Andy Carpenter

Some of the funding will also be used towards minor improvements in the centres of Kibworth, Fleckney, Great Glen and Broughton Astley.

Other elements will support local businesses and assist people looking for work.

Nearly half a million pounds (£468,000) will be used to support the business sector, including town centre retail businesses and tourism, as well as funding business advice, including grants for small businesses.

The final section of funding – just over £140,000 – will help to support people to access employment and develop their skills through training courses.

The cash has come from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which is part of the government’s Levelling Up agenda.

Neil O’Brien, MP for Harborough, Oadby and Wigston, said: “I am delighted that UKSPF funding from Government has been approved which will make a real difference to communities in my constituency.

“I am particularly looking forward to seeing the ambitious masterplan for Market Harborough rolled out over the next few years which will help to regenerate the town centre by planting new trees, creating welcoming entry routes, and improving facilities for pedestrians and cyclists.

“It is also welcome news that Fleckney, Great Glen and Kibworth will see improvements to their village centres. The funding will also help to encourage local enterprise and boost employment skills. I’d like to thank Harborough District Council for putting together these exciting plans, which can now begin to be delivered.”