Trowbridge shortlisted for Government funding

Trowbridge is in line for significant investment which will breathe new life into the centre after being shortlisted for major Government funding.

Wiltshire Council, in partnership with town and parish councils, submitted expressions of interest for the Government's Future High Streets Fund to boost Trowbridge for residents, businesses and visitors.

The Future High Streets Fund is a £675m central government fund that is open for applications from towns and cities throughout England. The fund recognises the continuing importance of high streets as places where commerce and community meet, and aims to support high streets as they change to meet the needs and expectations of communiti

es now and in the future.

Philip Whitehead, Wiltshire Council Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Development said: "This is wonderful news that the county town of Wiltshire has been shortlisted for major funding.

"Trowbridge is a historic town which has immense potential. This funding will allow us to invest in major projects that improve Trowbridge for residents, businesses and tourists alike."

The Trowbridge expression of interest recognised a range of opportunities that could help transform the cen

tre. It focused on the main aspects of the town's masterplan, ensuring that the key assets of the river, parks, canal and historic buildings provide a range of quality spaces and

environments, along with improving leisure and shopping opportunities.

The bid for funding in the town includes resources to help improve traffic and to encourage walking and cycling by improving access; enhancements to Castle Place and the Town Hall; and an assessment of development potential around Court Street and Castle Street.

As the initial bid has been shortlisted the Government will now release some initial funding to help develop these proposals in more detail. At this stage there will be a full consultation with businesses, the community and key stakeholders.

The Trowbridge success comes after Wiltshire Council heard the Future High Streets Fund bid for Salisbury has also been successfully shortlisted.