Huge investment coming for Layton and Grange Park
Little Layton – an area encompassing Layton and Grange Park – has been announced as one of 25 “trailblazer neighbourhoods” across the country set to receive long-term investment from the Government. Over the next 10 years the area will benefit from at least £20 million in funding – that’s a guaranteed £2 million every year – to lead the way in community-led regeneration and renewal.
This is a major win for Blackpool South and for communities in Layton and Grange Park, who for too long been overlooked by successive governments. This investment is proof that when we fight for our fair share, change is possible.
A mission critical opportunity
Earlier this week I highlighted how 34 neighbourhoods in Blackpool South were identified as “mission critical" – places that are furthest from achieving the government’s five missions on health, education, crime, skills and prosperity. I called on the government to give these neighbourhoods the investment they need. Now, four of them which lie within Layton and Grange Park have been – and I will keep fighting for the rest.
These are areas where poor housing, limited access to opportunity, and health inequality go hand in hand. But they are also places filled with resilience, potential and a deep sense of community – I know this because it’s the area I grew up in and went to school, first at Layton Primary and then St Mary’s. The trailblazer funding recognises this reality and gives us the tools to turn things around from the ground up.
How the funding will be spent
This £20 million investment won’t be dictated by Whitehall. Instead, it will be driven by and for the community. Local people will be empowered to shape the future of their neighbourhoods, whether through improving homes, supporting families, creating safer streets, or investing in young people.
This is sustained, long-term backing for real change – something our communities have been crying out for.
As MP for the area I’ll be working closely with residents, Blackpool Council, community organisations, and local businesses to make sure this funding is used in a way that reflects our community’s priorities and values. I want this to be the start of a new chapter for Layton and Grange Park – one where we prove what’s possible when local people are given the power and resources to lead.
Building a better Blackpool
I know how hard times have been in recent years. The cost of living crisis, underinvestment, and rising inequality have left too many of our neighbours struggling. But this funding is a reason for hope. It shows that Blackpool South is no longer being left behind. On the back of millions of a huge wave of investment in our town since Labour took office, it’s further recognition that this Government understands that if Blackpool succeeds, Britain succeeds.
