New Year - A time to take stock

This time of year allows us to look back on the last twelve months. What we achieved and what we have to look forward to in 2024. 

At the start of the year, we unfortunately had BUPA announce - without warning - they were closing the dentists. I am delighted that after working with Ministers at the Department of Health , and the local NHS, dental provision will return to the town early in 2024. 

An interim caretaker service will operate from the site of the former Bupa practice while a long-term contract is finalised. This means Bolsover will once again have a permanent dental practice. 

In August, our bid for a sixth form in the town was successful. This has been my most important campaign as an MP to date. Simply because it has the potential to change so many lives for the better. 

It’s levelling-up in action, more opportunities, and improved life chances for young people living in Bolsover and the surrounding villages. I could not be any prouder of this achievement.

In November, I had the pleasure of being able to welcome the Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak MP, to The Bolsover School to celebrate the sixth form announcement. I genuinely hope the children in those classes will remember this moment for a lifetime. 

Regardless of politics, I think having the Prime Minister show his support for children in our constituency is amazing and it will help raise aspirations in areas which for too long have felt forgotten. 

Last, but my no means the least, the Chancellor, Jeremy Hunt MP, announced £15 million of funding for the regeneration of Bolsover Town Centre during the Autumn Statement.

For too long our local high streets have been neglected. That’s why I’m delighted to welcome the £15 million investment into the heart of Bolsover. The funding will support small businesses and regenerate our town centre to make it a more vibrant, convenient, and exciting place at the heart of our local community, as well as attracting tourists into our town.

Along with the recently announced sixth form, £24 million for the new urgent and emergent care department at Chesterfield Royal, and the new dental provision, we are making great progress in Bolsover. 

Now our attention must turn to delivering all of these projects. 

I hope you enjoyed the holidays and I wish you all the very best for 2024!