In the autumn budget statement, the government confirmed that ‘the Long-Term Plan for Towns will be retained and reformed into a new regeneration programme’.
It is fantastic news that the funding will be retained. This represents a significant opportunity to deliver further improvements for Skegness, building on the exciting projects that are already underway.
Chris BaronChair of the Connected Coast Board
We understand that the programme delivery funding will begin supporting projects from 2026, with £200,000 capacity funding set to be received in the next financial year.
This summer we carried out consultation with local people to find out people’s thoughts on how this potential funding could be spent in Skegness. The feedback that was shared with us has helped to inform the work we have been carrying out to develop a long term plan for Skegness.
Although the extension of the timescales for the delivery funding is disappointing, it does mean that we will be able to carry out more engagement with the community in the coming year to shape and finalise our plan for Skegness.
It is also great to see additional, complementary funding announced in the budget for business support, heritage, and skills that can also benefit our area.
Through our consultation we found out what matters to people, and what improvements they would like to see in the town. This feedback is invaluable and will shape how this investment can be used to make a difference for Skegness.
Paul McCooeyChair of the Connected Coast Skegness Sub-Group
Whilst we would have liked to begin investing in projects for Skegness sooner, we will use the additional time to engage with people and work together to refine our plan for the town.
We are continuing the conversations we have begun with the public, and as we find out more about the funding, we will keep local people informed and involved so that together we can ensure that this investment meets the needs of Skegness.
We look forward to receiving further details on the funding criteria and the next steps in due course, and we will provide another update as we know more.
I am delighted the Long-Term Plan for Towns funding set aside for projects in Skegness has been confirmed in the Autumn budget. There’s been a lot of work and community involvement on generating ideas for investment projects in Skegness and now that work can continue.
Craig LeylandLeader of East Lindsey District Council
While it would have been preferable to start investing in these projects sooner than the Government has set out in its plan, we now have more time and will continue working and talking with partners and residents to ensure these schemes bring the best opportunities possible for Skegness.
Photo credit: Duncan Cuthbertson