I am pleased to welcome the publication of the Government's Levelling Up White Paper today setting out our ambitious plans to ensure everyone has the same opportunities across the country.
Derbyshire and Derby have been recognised as national ‘Levelling Up’ leaders with the government announcing that they had secured a County Deal, and have been awarded ‘pathfinder’ status, which will bring extra investment to support economic growth in the area, alongside the transfer of specific powers from central government to a local level in areas like transport, bus services, housing and skills, giving greater autonomy to local leaders over decision making and funding.
The government will fund ambitious plans for bus improvements in areas where this can make the most impact, including across Derbyshire. Something I have been pushing for improvement on since my election in 2019.
I also welcome the news that Derbyshire has become an Education Investment Area (EIA). I have been calling for more investment in our schools, tackling the skills gap, providing far better access to post-16 education, and ensuring everyone has access to the education and training needed to fill the jobs we are bringing in to the area.
And I am pleased that the High Street Task Force has committed to working with our local authority and supporting them in delivering positive change across Bolsover High Streets.
Derbyshire County Council announcement
https://www.derbyshire.gov.uk/.../derbyshire-and-derby...
Levelling Up White Paper https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/.../Levelling_Up...
