ACE shares an update on regional activity following publication of the successful bids for round two of Levelling Up Funding, totalling £2.1 billion. 

A total of 111 areas have been awarded funding from the second of the government’s Levelling Up Fund, providing investment in communities that it hopes will create new jobs, drive economic growth, and help restore people’s pride in the places where they live, while spreading opportunity more equally.  

High-profile examples of successful bids include Eden Project North in Morecambe, Cardiff’s Crossrail, ferries in the Shetland Islands, regeneration of Gateshead Quays and train services in Cornwall. A full list of successful projects can be found on the gov.uk website. 

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said, “By reaching even more parts of the country than before, we will build a future of optimism and pride in people’s lives and the places they call home.” 

Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove added: “We are firing the starting gun on more than a hundred transformational projects in every corner of the UK that will revitalise communities that have historically been overlooked but are bursting with potential.” 

Peter Hogg (Arcadis), chair of ACE’s places advocacy group, welcomed the announcement: “What is encouraging about the round two levelling up funding is the balanced and nuanced approach taken - funding has been earmarked for places all around the UK.” 

“While there are further conversations to be had on ensuring areas do not compete for funding and how funding per capita is allocated, this mature approach is a positive move welcomed by our industry.” 

Members interested in Levelling Up and regional development are invited to join the association in 2023 at our regional groups (North West and Midlands) or our places advocacy group. 

ACE policy lead for the regions, Andrew Gladstone-Heighton said: “As a proud Northerner, I have a keen personal interest in the work of our members in creating better connected and greener places across the UK.”  

“The timing could not be better for you to get involved – we are sharing our members’ suggestions with HM Treasury ahead of the Budget in March, and have an exciting programme of committee meetings set up for 2023.” 

“We will – of course – also be talking to key stakeholders in regional and Mayoral Combined Authorities, and discussing future ambitions for the wider North East devolution deal which announced over the festive period.” 

ACE will soon be sharing its political Manifestos for the English regions and devolved administrations. 

Get in touch with Andrew today if you would like to attend one of our upcoming regional group meetings.