City Deal proposal progresses

The City Deal that would unlock investment in roads and transport and help to create 23,000 new jobs in Preston and Lancashire could be sealed in the next few months.

Preston and Lancashire's proposal for a City Deal, originally one of 20 invited by the deputy prime minister earlier in the year, is now understood to be among the closest to agreement.

"The proposal is for a truly transformational, once in a lifetime series of improvements that will give investors a tremendous added incentive to come to the area and create sustainable employment.

County councillor Jennifer Mein, leader of Lancashire County Council, said: "This is a realistic yet exciting proposal that speaks volumes for the potential of the Preston area and would have a positive impact across the whole county.

The plans would include major new road building schemes and widening of existing trunk routes around Preston and South Ribble, opening up the area for expansion.

In addition to funding from government, the proposed investment will include contributions from commercial developers towards new infrastructure, extensive input from the county council and funding from both Preston’s and South Ribble’s New Homes Bonus and Community Infrastructure Levy. The proposals are now in a 'due diligence' phase, which involves local partners and government departments assessing the proposed deal in more detail. Hopes are high that an agreement could be reached before the Parliamentary recess, enabling work to progress soon.