The Leader of Hull City Council, Cllr Mike Ross, has enthusiastically embraced the significant £19.35 million funding boost for the city. He expressed his appreciation whilst meeting with Levelling Up Minister Jacob Young MP, accompanied by the council’s chief executive, Matt Jukes, and Hull & East Yorkshire Local Enterprise Partnership chair, James Newman OBE.
During the council’s high-level talks with Minister Jacob Young MP, who visited Hull to announce the £19.35 million funding as part of the new Levelling Up Partnerships, Cllr Ross, Matt Jukes, James Newman, and other city representatives discussed various matters. Notably, Minister Young MP also had the opportunity to visit the Siemens Gamesa plant, where he witnessed the impressive facilities that make Hull a world-leading player.
Of the government funding, £5 million has been allocated to support further education, particularly focusing on developing green skills. This investment will enable the city to enhance education and training, addressing the issue of low skills and preparing individuals for employment in Hull’s expanding green energy sector. It underscores the council’s steadfast commitment to mitigating climate change.
In addition to promoting education and green skills, £10 million has been pledged to the East Bank development opportunity. This financial support aims to facilitate the readiness of the site to accommodate up to 850 homes, as well as commercial space and offices.
The allocation of funds also includes £1.5 million for the establishment of two new managed workspace centres. Furthermore, there will be £1 million dedicated to small business loans and addressing community centre infrastructure priorities.
Within the funding package, provisions have been made to combat anti-social behavior through the Safer Streets initiative. The improvement of family hubs in Marfleet and Orchard Park, as well as strengthening pan-Humber arrangements to foster economic growth, are also important facets. Each of these schemes will receive £200,000 in funding, with an additional £250,000 being committed to producing a masterplan for the city center.
Describing the value of the funding, Cllr Ross commented, “Hull is at the forefront of the renewable energy sector, and this financial boost will further enhance our city’s standing, both nationally and internationally. The council is pleased to receive substantial funding that will positively impact residents across Hull, allowing us to address anti-social behavior, support our local businesses, and fulfill the priorities of our constituents.”
He further expressed confidence in the council’s collaborative efforts with the government to effectively utilize this financial infusion for the benefit of the people of Hull, while also meeting the desires of city residents for a greener and safer environment, as well as a thriving local economy.
