Published on:
14
October 2016
The Council has confirmed plans to invest a £2 million award in the regeneration of Clackmannan.
A report to the Council meeting (13 October) heard that following an application by the Council, the Scottish Government awarded the £2 million as part of the Local Economic Development Fund. This funding, along with £2 million capital funding already approved by Council are a considerable response to mitigate the adverse impacts of the Longannet closure.
The regeneration project, which forms part of the Longannet Economic Recovery Plan, is consistent with the objectives of the Clackmannan Community Action Plan, has been developed in partnership with Clackmannan Development Trust and the Community Council. It will build on the considerable infrastructure investment which has taken place in recent years, including the construction of the Clackmannanshire Bridge and the reopening of the Alloa to Stirling rail passenger service. The meeting also heard there is the potential for the construction of approximately 35 social housing units in the town.
Project objectives include:
- Create and sustain employment and enterprise opportunities, particularly for small business and exploit potential for promotion of tourist based links to Fife
- Improve the physical appearance and connectivity of the town centre to make it more attractive for investment, tourism and employment opportunities
- Enhance the historic townscape and setting of the Clackmannan Conservation Area and surrounding area including environmental enhancements and bringing sites back to economic use
- Improve access to more integrated local community services
- Improve educational attainment, positive destinations and community learning and empowerment
- Foster improved well-being through community engagement
It is expected to be a three year project overall, however the Local Economic Development funding will be used to support a number of elements during 2016/17 including Town Centre Renewal, Small/Medium Enterprise development, community amenities and enterprise, parking and mitigation of congestion issues.
Environment Spokesperson Cllr Kathleen Martin said: "This investment is good news for Clackmannan, and will help to address the very real impact of the loss of well paid jobs following the closure of Longannet. Working with the local community, the Council has developed a regeneration plan which was successful in obtaining this considerable funding award. Work will be starting very soon to help create support for local business to develop and flourish and to improve the environment of Clackmannan."