Today (10th June 2020), Stuart Anderson MP directly asked the Prime Minister Boris Johnson whether he will make a firm recommitment to reach into some of the most deprived areas and level up the country. In particular, Stuart stood up for areas such as Whitmore Reans, Chapel Ash, and Pennfields to ensure that they are part of the economic recovery from Covid-19.
In response to Stuart's question, the Prime Minister accepted Stuart's request and confirmed that Wolverhampton is due to receive the following:
- Wolverhampton will benefit from around £217 million of the growth deal funding across the Black Country,
- This aims to create 5,000 jobs and 1,400 new homes
- Wolverhampton will also benefit £310 million in public and private investment
Speaking after Prime Minister's Questions, Stuart Anderson MP said: "Pre-Covid, the Prime Minister made a firm commitment to reach into some of the most deprived areas and level up the country. This is needed now more than ever.
"I am pleased that the Prime Minister has made this firm recommitment to Whitmore Reans, Chapel Ash, Pennfields and the rest of Wolverhampton so that they won't just survive, they will thrive."
"I understand the extreme disruption that Covid-19 has caused our City. My wife and I suffered from suspected Covid-19 and spent time in self-isolation. My team did an outstanding job helping constituents in my absence. Since coming out of self-isolation, my top priority has been supporting constituents and responding to casework.
"I remain focused on the response to Covid-19; from volunteering at the food distribution centre to lobbying for more investment in Wolverhampton. I want to continue working for the good of Wolverhampton, seeing the City emerge from Covid-19 as strong as possible."
During this time of national emergency, Wolverhampton has received the following funding:
- Local Authorities Additional Covid-19 Funding: £19m
- Small Business Grant Fund and Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grant Fund: £53m
- Covid-19 Council Tax Hardship Fund 2021-21: £3m
- Infection Control Fund: £3m
- Reopening High Streets Fund: £151,819
- Self-Employment Income Support Scheme: £6.5m
- Pitch Preparation Fund: £4,000
- Arts Council England: £68,730
- Western Power Distribution 'In This Together - Community Matters Fund: £1,500
- Towns Fund capital acceleration: £1m
Correction: The Prime Minister said £217 million of investment rather than £270 million. Hansard misheard what the PM said so will be correcting the record. Please read the below attachment for a breakdown of figures.
