Theresa May has welcomed the announcement of additional funding to support businesses and infrastructure in the Maidenhead area. The additional funding will support a range of projects, including the accelerated provision of broadband services in rural areas through Superfast Berkshire – increasing broadband coverage to 95% across all districts in the Thames Valley Berkshire area and supporting enterprise in rural areas.
Thames Valley Berkshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) has been allocated an additional £10.2 million by the Government, bringing its total allocation of funding to £107.1 million. In July 2014, the Government announced £96.9 million of funding for Thames Valley Berkshire LEP as part of the Growth Deal, which contained commitments including commitments to improve Maidenhead Station, introduce Western Rail Access to Heathrow, study the feasibility of semi-fast Crossrail services, and assist plans for a new Thames bridge.
Growth Deals bring together government funding for investment in infrastructure, housing, and other projects and put it in a single pot, which is placed in the hands of local authorities and businesses to invest – because they are best placed to know how to deliver local jobs and growth.
The additional investment of £10.2 million means that, from 2015 to 2021, up to 20,000 new jobs could be created, 12,000 new homes built, with the potential the generate £40 million in public and private investment.
Commenting, Theresa said: “This additional funding is another boost for Berkshire as part of the Government’s long-term economic plan. Increased support for Superfast Berkshire is particularly welcome and will help accelerate the roll out of this crucial scheme to increase broadband provision in the Maidenhead area. This is vital for businesses and residents, particularly in rural areas.”
