In September 2019 the Government announced a new ‘Town Deal’, an opportunity that invited 101 places to develop proposals as part of a £3.6bn Towns Fund. The Government invited the Council to enter into a ‘Town Deal’ agreement for Birkenhead, which would see investment of up to £25m, or for proposals with regional significance up to £50m, to boost productivity, skills and living standards.

A Town Deal for Birkenhead would complement other activities being undertaken as part of the wider growth and regeneration programme for Birkenhead. If successful, a Town Deal for Birkenhead would see capital investment in the town. However, the services provided within the new infrastructure delivered could be accessed by people across the borough.

Officers were preparing the bid submission, comprising a Town Investment Plan and supporting documentation, ready for the submission deadline on 31 January 2021.

The report provided Members with an update regarding the development to date of the funding bid and sought approval to allow the final sign-off of the Town Investment Plan and any necessary supporting documentation.

Members discussed topics around the Deal including the green corridor, priorities, metrics and the Town Deal Board.

RESOLVED: That

(1)  the themes of the emerging Town Investment Plan be endorsed

(2)  authority be delegated to the Director of Regeneration and Place, in consultation with the Chair and Spokespersons of the Economic Regeneration and Development Committee and the Chair of the Town Deal Board, to agree the content and submit the Town Investment Plan.

(3)  authority be delegated to the Director of Regeneration and Place, in consultation with the Chair and Spokespersons of the Economic Regeneration and Development Committee, and the Chair of the Town Deal Board, to agree the Town Deal Heads of Terms with Government.

(4)  It be agreed that this decision is urgent and therefore not subject to review.