I’ve got great news for Weston. Today the government has confirmed that that we have secured £20 million funding for the area though the government’s Plan for Neighbourhoods.

That’s going to amount to £2 million funding every year for Weston, particularly the areas concentrated around the Weston housing estates, for the next ten years.

Local people will play a key role in deciding how this money is spent, from supporting local jobs, community facilities, and green spaces, to measures to make the area safer and stronger.

Since being elected, I promised to fight for investment and I am proud to have delivered.

£20 million is a once-in-a-generation level of targeted, local funding that will change lives for people in Weston after years of being overlooked. I’m now looking forward to working with local people who will help decide how this money is spent.

Councillor Warwick Payne, who represents Woolston ward which includes Weston, said:

“This is a clear example that when we have a Labour Government neighbourhoods like Weston truly benefit. This funding will be a game-changer that will definitely improve the area.

“I can’t wait to work with community leaders to bring forward some really exciting ideas to make Weston better for the benefit of all residents.”

I’ll work with councillors, community groups and local people to ensure that this funding is spent on people’s priorities. The fund will rely on local people coming together to decide how to spend the money, with decision-making put in the hands of an independent board of the MP, local councillors, community leaders and residents.

The funding award for Weston is part of the Labour government’s national Plan for Neighbourhoods. Weston is one of 146 places in England that will get an extra £2million a year for the next ten years to spend on local projects.

Further details of how local people in Weston can share their views on how this funding should be spent will be announced in the next few weeks.