Dudley secures WMCA backing for town centre regeneration
The West Midlands Combined Authority has backed Dudley town centre with almost £1m through its High Street Growth & Incubator Programme.
The funding will be provided over three years and support businesses, designed to attract investment and increase activity in the town centre alongside initiatives to boost public spaces and wayfinding, and work to attract further investment.
It will also be used as part of local authority plans to explore opportunities for housing in the town centre.
Cllr Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council, said the cash would be used to built on the town’s existing schemes, including the Metro extension, the Dudley Interchange and wider regeneration and heritage schemes.
“Dudley is already changing, and this £944,444 investment gives us another opportunity to build on the transformation taking place through the Metro, the Interchange and wider regeneration projects. As town centres evolve, we are determined to create new reasons for people to live, visit, invest and do business in Dudley,” he said.
“With around 10 million visitors coming to the borough each year, we have a unique opportunity to better connect our world-class attractions with the town centre and ensure investment benefits residents, businesses and visitors alike.
“Together, we will develop an ambitious vision for a town centre that supports businesses, attracts investment, celebrates our heritage and creates new opportunities for generations to come.”
Separately, the Government has confirmed a further £3 million for Dudley Council through the Derelict Buildings Fund, designed to support the reuse of long-term vacant and derelict buildings in the town.
