Projects across Norfolk and Suffolk which are ‘shovel-ready’ could go-ahead after funding of £32.1m was confirmed as part of a Government drive to fuel jobs and economic recovery.
As part of its New Deal, the Government is to plough £900m into projects that will help deliver jobs, skills and infrastructure and target those areas facing the toughest challenges in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Funding of £111.5m has been confirmed for Local Enterprise Partnerships in the eastern region, of which £32.1m has been allocated for New Anglia LEP – which covers all of Norfolk and Suffolk.
New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership submitted a list of proposed projects, including a scheme to develop the derelict Burtons building on Ipswich’s waterfront district into a mixed-use complex that would create 90 new jobs.
Under the Government’s criteria, projects had to be deliverable within 18 months and link with the region’s Economic Strategy, Economic Recovery Restart Plan, and the Government’s Recovery Plan. They also need to deliver clear economic outputs, such as jobs, housing, or apprenticeships.
The final list of projects will be dependent on further assessment and prioritisation within each area and nationally.
Doug Field, chair of New Anglia LEP, said: “This is great news for our region and shows the Government’s commitment to our area. It will allow us to work with partners to bring forward infrastructure projects which will accelerate local growth and help us achieve the goals in the new Recovery Restart Plan and Economic Strategy.”
