£300 million investment into jobs and regeneration moves a step closer
A PLAN which could see more than 7,000 apprenticeships created and almost £300 million of government investment across east Kent has been approved by Dover District Council cabinet members this week.
The East Kent Local Investment Plan 2011-2026 aims to bring investment, jobs and improved and increased housing to Dover, Folkestone, Canterbury and Thanet through partnership with Kent County Council and the government's Homes and Communities Agency.
Dover Port, waterfront and town centre, the A2 corridor and new homes and infrastructure at Whitfield are three of the eight priorities of the plan. Tourism, such as the Open Golf Championship in Sandwich next July, is also highlighted.
The area will receive investment and advice from the Homes and Communities Agency's Investment Programme and help with gaining public sector funding. Since 2007 the HCA has invested £56.7 million in district projects, such as Connaught Barracks and the affordable housing programme. It now plans to plough £121.2 million in housing schemes from the expansion at Aylesham and Whitfield to development at Western Heights, Sholden and Deal and Coombe Valley over the next 15 years.
Another £5 million could be invested in creating employment in Aylesham. The HCA will also help the LIP secure £80 million from developer contributions, KCC and the national Regional Growth Fund for improvements to the A2 corridor. A business case is also to be made for a Bus Rapid Transit System, with dedicated bus lanes and electronic information at bus stops.
In a report to cabinet members, director of regeneration Tim Ingleton said: "The only realistic option is to support the LIP and ensure the Dover agenda is registered." The plan needs to be approved by the other three local authorities before legal contracts can be signed in March. Council leader Paul Watkins said: "For government funding our primary target on these schemes is to deliver growth, skills and training."
Source: www.thisiskent.co.uk
