Ground-breaking win for Long Eaton
The ambitious bid to secure funding to transform Long Eaton for future generations has paid off – with news that the bid for nearly £25m of government funding has been given the go-ahead.
It was confirmed today (8 June) that the Long Eaton Town Investment Plan – one of the most important visionary documents in the town's history – has won £24.8m and the multi-million pound projects can begin to move forward to give the town a major makeover and transform it into a vibrant modern town over the next decade.
News of the successful bid, put together by the multi-agency Long Eaton Town Deal Board, was announced by the government and has been widely welcomed and celebrated – with board chairman Richard Ledger saying it is a landmark decision for Long Eaton and everyone who lives and works in the town:
"What a moment this is. The funding will ensure we can now move forward into an exciting future for Long Eaton with the innovative projects we have generated. I am delighted the government has recognised our ambitions and my thanks go out to everyone involved in helping us seize this opportunity. Much hard work now lies ahead over the next 10 years to deliver the projects we have put forward – but let's bring it on!"
His comments were echoed by Councillor Carol Hart, the Leader of Erewash Borough Council:
"The magnitude of winning this funding is impossible to put into words. This news is fantastic and a testament to the hard work already put in – all with the help, of course, of local people and our business community. I am thrilled for Long Eaton and its residents."
The projects outlined in the town's bid – which with match funding amount to some £30m – have been developed through consultation with local residents and businesses:
Layout changes at The Green, a town centre traffic congestion hotspot – including relocating bus bays and restricting certain vehicle movements.
Improvements to the High Street, including moving the market back to its historical Market Place site, a no vehicle access except for permit holders and new paving and planting.
Turning the former Box Office cinema, which is now derelict, into a cultural hub, featuring a café, gallery, and auditorium for performance, film screenings, conferences and other arts-related social events.
Redevelopment of the disused former Galaxy cinema on the edge of the town centre on Derby Road by turning it into a four storey residential building aimed at young professionals.
Transform the Grade II* listed Stable Block at the rear of Long Eaton Town Hall into affordable small business units.
Proposals to upgrade the cycle and walking network, including improvements to the Broad Street Bridge between West Park and the town centre; a new bridge over the canal at Britannia Road; and lighting along the cycle route through West Park.
Creation of a 'West Park Waterfront' alongside the Erewash Canal including moorings for commercial boats providing food and drink with seating allowing visitors to enjoy the waterside environment; and improvement of facilities at West Park to allow high quality events to be held.
The council and Long Eaton Town Board will keep residents updated on the way forward. Full information can be found at www.longeatontowndeal.org