Agenda item

The Cabinet considered a report of the Corporate Director of Regeneration, Economy and Growth which provided an overview of the guidance and bidding requirements to access Round 2 of the Levelling Up Fund.

The report sought approval for the submission of five proposals across County Durham for the parliamentary constituencies of City of Durham, Easington, North Durham, North West Durham and Sedgefield. The report outlined each submission for Round 2 and identified a match funding requirement, including £10 million of Council funding to lever an initial £92 million Levelling Up Fund investment towards the five Levelling Up schemes with a total expenditure of £117 million (for copy of report, see file of minutes).

Councillor E Scott explained that Levelling Up was a flagship policy of central government which the County Council were keen to benefit from. The County Council were demonstrating its commitment by way of match funding and the bids supported employment, growth and would enhance the visitor economy.

Councillor R Bell thanked all staff and Councillors for engaging in what had been a significant and challenging effort. He wished the Council every success with the bids which would deliver real benefits for residents across the County.

Resolved:

The recommendations in the report be approved.