More than £1.6m for West Berkshire's 'levelling up'

West Berkshire is in line for more than £1.6m from the Government’s levelling up fund.

The district is to get £1,674,525 through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to help level up the community – from regenerating run down high streets to fighting anti-social behaviour.

The funding also includes free tutoring, digital training and flexible courses to help adults with low-level maths skills get back into work, as well as measures to get more young people into high-skilled jobs.

The district’s share is from £2.6 billion to be awarded to communities across the UK.

Council leader Lynne Doherty (Con, Speen) has welcomed the news.

“I am incredibly proud of West Berkshire and know that our best days lie ahead," she said. "I am determined to work with HM Government to ensure that everyone from our area is able to reach their full potential.

“That is why I welcome the investment which can be used across a range of projects from supporting adults who lack basic numeracy skills, helping young people into good jobs, and regenerating our high streets.

“This investment will help local residents to fulfil their potential, while reducing regional inequalities that have been left untouched for too long.”

Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove added: “The UK Shared Prosperity Fund will help to unleash the creativity and talent of communities that have for too long been overlooked and undervalued.”