Watford’s MP and mayor have joined forces to back a bid that would see millions of pounds invested in the town.
Dean Russell and Peter Taylor have put political differences aside as they strive to secure £16 million from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund.
The money would “unlock Watford’s potential” with a focus on investment around the town hall and in the town centre.
Watford Borough Council has aspirations for the top of town to become a leader in culture, spearheaded by the Colosseum arts venue.
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Proposals that have previously been outlined by the council also include a business innovation and incubation hub, as well as the relocation of Watford Museum.
The council says the cultural and business hub will increase visitors, revitalise the town centre, generate jobs and provide a strong foundation for the next hundred years of Watford’s history.
Speaking as the final touches were being put to the bid, Elected Mayor Peter Taylor said: “Our bid sets out very compelling reasons why Watford deserves this government investment and I really hope they listen.
“We are absolutely ready to deliver our ambitious plans to make sure our town and community are not left behind but can look forward to an even more successful and prosperous future. We just need the Government to recognise what we can achieve, and back Watford.”
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The current bid is Watford’s second attempt to secure investment from the £4.8 billion Levelling Up Fund, having missed out last year.
There is around £8 million earmarked to support regeneration and £7.7 million to support culture.
A further nine million of investment is planned which will be met through the council, grants, and private sector.
The council and MP Dean Russell say they are confident the bid "clearly ticks" all the Government’s levelling up boxes, including regeneration of town centres and high streets, supporting people into jobs and investing in local cultural and heritage facilities.
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Mr Russell said: “The bid will transform the centre of the town to support our community and create new opportunities for entrepreneurs, charities, businesses and residents alike. We have an opportunity to build upon the successful global links to the creative and film industry whilst also tackling some of the challenges we face in the town too.
“I hope the Government will recognise that this bid will deliver for people across Watford and beyond.”
The council is hoping to hear whether its bid has been successful by the end of the year.
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