Town to get revamp of roads as part of £16.9m new deal

D-day next month for revised proposals

- Phil Corrigan Local Democracy Reporter

COUNCIL leaders are set to approve revised multi-million pound plans to boost a town centre.

Kidsgrove's £16.9 million Town Deal originally included proposals for a shared services hub, bringing together various services at a single location. But this was dropped after partners pulled out, forcing the Town Deal Board to come up with alternative ways of spending the cash.

Proposals now include a community learning hub, new enterprise units and town centre road improvements.

Cabinet members at Newcastle Borough Council, which is accountable for the Town Deal funds, will be asked to approve the alternative schemes on September 2. A report to cabinet says once the plans are approved, the council will enter funding agreements with partners for the schemes, which will be delivered over the next two years.

Council leader Simon Tagg, who is also vice-chair of Kidsgrove Town Deal Board, said it is a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity to stimulate economic growth, create jobs and enhance residents' quality of life.