Hundreds of jobs and ‘exciting’ regeneration promised for Clay Cross after multi-million pound funding boost
Hundreds of jobs are set to be created as a north east Derbyshire town is ‘transformed’ thanks to a ‘once in a generation’ funding boost.
Clay Cross has this week been awarded £24.1million from the Government’s Towns Fund programme after a bid submitted last year was successful.
Council chiefs say the cash means residents can now look forward to ‘many exciting’ proposals progressing in the town.
These include new environmentally-friendly homes, a ‘state-of-the-art’ leisure centre, the redevelopment of the town centre and exploration of plans for a railway station in Clay Cross.
Councillor Carolyn Renwick, cabinet member for economic development at North East Derbyshire District Council, said: “What an incredible and proud moment this is for Clay Cross and north east Derbyshire.
“To be awarded the full sum we asked for – over £24m – will mean Clay Cross will be an exciting hub of redevelopment, opportunity and prosperity for years to come.
“With many exciting projects planned – and wanted by the residents – this opportunity will really put Clay Cross on the map.
“The jobs which will be created during the construction phase will follow on to a transformation of the town, with opportunities for investment from businesses to come and join the town – with employment opportunities here for this and generations to come.”
A council spokesperson said the funding presents a ‘once in a generation opportunity to transform this historic former mining town into a vibrant and low-carbon 21st century market town’.
They added: “Exciting projects will be able to get underway which will include a new state-of-the-art leisure and well-being centre, exploration of the potential for a Clay Cross railway station, a cultural centre and a skills and enterprise hub.
“Low-carbon housing and commercial space will be built, together with other leisure uses for existing current and future residents.
“Hundreds of jobs will be created, giving local people a range of opportunities.”
They said the £24.1m would also be used to attract up to £50m in additional private sector investment for Clay Cross.
The spokesperson added: “The highly-anticipated funding means the town can now look forward to many regeneration projects being started.
“The future of Clay Cross looks incredibly bright.”