WYRE FOREST received over £3million investment through UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) in the last three years for projects across the district, writes Abigail Wyatt.
A total of 20 schemes received funding between 2022 and 2025, including the upgrade of community facilities and nearly £200,000 awarded in grants to community groups and businesses.
Projects have improved public spaces, strengthened local businesses and created new opportunities for residents.
UKSPF was launched by the former Government in 2022 to improve regional prosperity and tackle local inequalities.
The council delivered projects under three key themes – Communities and Place, Supporting Local Business, and People and Skills.
Over the three-year programme, the council worked with local delivery partners to maximise impact and ensure benefits were felt across the district.
Investment was made in key community assets, such as Stourport Community Centre, Spennells changing rooms, The Weaving Sheds, The Old Court, and St Anne’s Church.
Local green spaces and events have also been supported.
Local businesses benefited from free advice, start-up events, mentoring, innovation grants, skills workshops, tourism marketing, carbon reduction funding and business incubation programmes.
Residents received support and guidance to secure employment and develop their skills.
Employers have benefited from workforce upskilling grants.
Coun Dan Morehead, Wyre Forest District Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration, Planning and the Green Agenda, said “Through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, we’ve been able to deliver targeted support where it matters most by improving our community facilities, helping businesses grow and giving residents the tools to succeed.
“These investments have created real momentum across Wyre Forest and we’re proud of what’s been achieved.”
A full report on the outputs and outcomes of the UKSPF 2022-25 programme in Wyre Forest is available at: wyreforestdc.gov.uk – the council’s website:
Further UKSPF funding of just over £1million has been secured for the 2025-26 financial year, which will continue to provide support for Wyre Forest communities, businesses and residents.
