Millions of pounds of funding for projects which will help 'kickstart' economy

Lincolnshire County Council’s economy portfolio holder Councillor Colin Davie confirmed the funding to the authority’s economy and environment committee on Tuesday, July 14, at a virtual meeting, but there are no details about which projects will be covered by the funding.

He said: “The council continues to respond to the multiple challenges of Covid 19, supporting businesses communities and individuals as an authority as well as championing the needs and opportunities of Greater Lincolnshire with the government – not just today, but in the future.”

The funding comes from the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) and projects will go before the department in more detail before being officially confirmed and will support economic recovery following the Covid 19 pandemic and will be used to improve digital infrastructure, support skills and career opportunities, and transition to a low-carbon economy.

Councillor Davie said: “The Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) led the bid to the MHCLG which has resulted in this allocation of funding.

“I wrote to all Lincolnshire MPs seeking support for key shovel ready projects which will provide a stimulus to our economy.”

The money comes on top of further funding announcements by government, including a £10 million tourism kickstart funding and and another £20 million kickstart grant along the same lines.

Councillor Davie said: “Covid 19 has caused a major shock to the economic and structural system to our country as it has around the world.

"We have reopened to a large extent, however, the fear of a second pandemic or second wave is still out there.

“The announcement over masks leads to continuing concern over the fragility of the business world going forward.

“The challenges are still there and will become greater in the months ahead.”

These funds are a share of a £900 million Getting Building Fund.