PKC opposition councillors call for Levelling Up cash rethink

PKC Opposition Councillors Urge Rethink on Levelling Up Funding

Opposition councillors from Perth and Kinross Council have united in calling for a review of the decision to withdraw £5 million in Levelling Up funding earmarked for Perth. This move comes after SNP MP Pete Wishart expressed disappointment in a letter to Chancellor Rachel Reeves over the scrapping of funding for three key projects in the Fair City.

The three projects affected by the funding cut are the £3 million restoration of Perth’s Lower City Mills, the £1.5 million conversion of a former city foundry into an exhibition and workspace, and the allocation of £500,000 to transform a vacant High Street tourism centre into a shopfront for local food and drink providers. The withdrawal of the funding has been described by PKC SNP leader Grant Laing as “extremely disappointing” and “short-sighted”.

In addition to Pete Wishart’s letter, PKC Conservative leader John Duff and the sole Labour councillor at the local authority, Bailie Bailey, have also penned a joint letter to the chancellor urging a reconsideration of the decision. Councillors Duff and Bailey have specifically requested that Perth and Kinross be given priority in any future replacement funds for the Levelling Up programme.

Councillor Duff expressed his dismay over the sudden withdrawal of the funds, stating that the grants would have been instrumental in the city centre’s recovery efforts. He highlighted that although Perth received a relatively small grant compared to other regions, it would have had a significant impact on the community. Councillor Bailey echoed these sentiments, emphasising the importance of securing alternative funding without overly restrictive conditions.

The Levelling Up Fund was established by the previous Conservative UK Government to allocate grants to various cities, towns, and regions across the UK following Brexit. The projects in Perth had been identified for funding in this year’s spring budget. However, a recent update on the UK Government website indicated a potential withdrawal of funding for the Perth projects, citing the need to make savings.

Ministers are expected to announce the final decision following a consultation process. The councillors are hopeful that Perth and Kinross will receive fair consideration for future funding opportunities to support vital community projects.

Insights and Summary:

PKC opposition councillors are advocating for a reconsideration of the UK Government’s decision to withdraw £5 million in Levelling Up funding for Perth. The scrapped funding was intended for three key projects aimed at revitalising the city, including heritage restoration and promoting local businesses. The councillors’ united front in urging the chancellor to review the funding cut demonstrates their commitment to advocating for the community’s best interests. It highlights the importance of securing essential funding to support local initiatives and drive economic recovery. The outcome of this plea will not only impact Perth’s development but also serve as a litmus test for the government’s commitment to fair funding distribution.