£4.2m boost to growth plans

Residents will soon benefit from a flexible arts space in the centre of town and a new look station forecourt following the announcement the Government has released £4.2m Growth Area Funding (GAF) for 2010-2011.

Securing this funding from the Communities and Local Government is a huge boost to Ashford’s growth plans and means projects which will greatly benefit the local community, including the Arts at St Mary’s and station forecourt improvements, can now be taken forward.

Cllr Paul Bartlett, Leader of Ashford Borough Council, said: “At a time when cuts in public spending are reaching unprecedented levels, the new coalition Government has shown its confidence in Ashford’s growth programme.

“This further investment will fund a range of improvement projects in the town to make Ashford a better place to live and work for our residents.”

The announcement follows other recent successful Government funding bids including £16.5m Community Infrastructure Funding for Victoria Way and £15.1m Regional Infrastructure Funding for improvements to Junction 9 and nearby Drovers Roundabout including a landmark footbridge over the M20.

Cllr Paul Clokie, Chairman of the Ashford’s Future Partnership Board, said: “This announcement means over £54m is being invested in Ashford in the next year which will result in a better transport network and improved community facilities for our residents to enjoy and use for many years to come.”

Ashford has received a total of £22.5m Growth Area Funding from the Department for Communities and Local Government between 2008 and 2011.

Media release 0243/10
16/08/2010