Central Government approves request from Preston City Council to reallocate funds across remaining projects

Approval to revise the Active Preston Levelling Up Fund regeneration programme originally approved in 2023

Central Government has approved a request from the City Council to revise its Active Preston Levelling Up Fund regeneration programme originally approved in 2023.

In order to make the programme financially secure, the £7m originally earmarked for the revamp of Ashton Park has been distributed across the six remaining projects that the Levelling Up Fund was originally allocated to.

Councillor Valerie Wise, Cabinet Member for Community Wealth Building said:

"Preston is currently in a state of growth and development and the news that the MHCLG has approved the decision to focus on further enhancing the wonderful places we have in Preston, is incredibly positive for our residents." 

The "project adjustment request" to the 'Active Preston' regeneration programme granted by The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) includes the replacement of the Old Tram Bridge, a new cycle path along Queen Street and Avenham Lane, public space improvements including cycle links, to Friargate South, Orchard Street and Cheapside, as well as improvements to parks including Grange Park, Moor Park, and Waverley Park.

Overall, this represents over £22 million of investment, supported by £20 million of Central Government Levelling Up grant.