Scarborough plans £20 million boost for community wellbeing projects
Seven initiatives selected for potential funding under Pride in Place programme
Scarborough is set to benefit from up to £20 million in government funding, aimed at transforming the town and enhancing community health and wellbeing through the Pride in Place programme.
Seven projects have been shortlisted for the funding and are to be considered by the Scarborough Neighbourhood Board and executive members, with the final decision set for 26th May.
Projects include the redevelopment of the former Brunswick Shopping Centre into a leisure complex, improving accessibility at the Stephen Joseph Theatre, and rejuvenating the town centre through the Sprucing Up Scarborough initiative.
Other initiatives are plans for a year-round cultural event programme under the Scarborough Fair banner, a dedicated men's wellbeing hub, a youth support programme to inspire young people, and a small grants scheme to aid community groups and voluntary organisations.
To maintain momentum, councillors will be asked to allocate £3.2 million from the authority’s reserves to support delivery in the programme's first two years, and this will be reimbursed upon the release of government funds.
Cllr Mark Crane, executive member for open to business, commented on the opportunity for long-term regeneration and sustainable investment for Scarborough.
"The local projects chosen will bring wide-ranging benefits to those who live and work in the town," Crane said.
The public consultation earlier this year generated over 1,200 responses, shaping the selection of these seven projects from an original list of 11 possibilities.
Heath Samples, chair of the Scarborough Neighbourhood Board, emphasised the importance of community feedback in the decision process.
The meeting on 26th May will further detail the projects and funding allocations as part of a broader four-year investment plan aimed at sustained development.