New milestone for North Dorset Growth project

A major Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) investment project supporting economic growth and sustainability in North Dorset has reached a new milestone this month with the start of revitalising improvement works in Gillingham town centre. 

Dorset LEP secured £3.5 million through the Government’s Local Growth Fund for infrastructure improvements in Gillingham to support housing and employment in the town. 

The Gillingham Growth project, which is being delivered by Dorset Council, includes a package of transport improvements within Gillingham town centre to maintain and improve traffic flows through and around the town. It aims to unlock and deliver the development of up to 1800 houses, 9 Hectares of employment land and 2500 jobs. 

Sustainable transport improvements (walking and cycling) are being encouraged through improved routes, junctions and crossings linking residents with key destinations within the town.

This latest work package will see the start of town centre enhancements to Gillingham High street. 

Dorset LEP Director Lorna Carver said: “Gillingham is a busy market town.  Urban realm enhancement will help revitalise the High Street, change the feel of the town centre and aid economic activity and vibrancy. This milestone marks an exciting step forward towards the completion of this important growth project.”

Cllr Ray Bryan, Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said: “Over time, the existing materials through High Street have become cracked and uneven, making it difficult for pedestrians and cyclists to navigate the area.

“Renewing this street scene with improved, modern materials will complement the new and ongoing sustainable transport improvements in the town. And together, these enhancements will make walking and cycling a safer and more attractive option for many people.”

Notes to Editors: 

Dorset LEP

Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership is a business led private and public sector partnership, promoting local economic growth and prosperity. Dorset LEP deliver projects that support and develop infrastructure, housing, skills, enterprise and business growth to achieve long-term economic benefit for all in Dorset. 

For more information visit the Dorset LEP website http://www.dorsetlep.co.uk/

Local Growth Fund

Local Enterprise Partnerships are playing a vital role in driving forward economic growth across the country, helping to build a country that works for everyone.

That’s why by 2021 Government will have invested over £12bn through the Local Growth Fund, allowing LEPs to use their local knowledge to get all areas of the country firing on all cylinders.

Some additional key facts:

• There are 38 LEPs covering the whole of England.
• The government has awarded £9.1bn in three rounds of Growth Deals to local areas to drive economic growth.
• LEPs are investing in a wide range of projects including transport, skills, business support, broadband, innovation and flood defences.