West Dorset MP Chris Loder has welcomed the approval of more than £6million of funding for Dorset. The fund is predominantly channelled towards the new UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with an additional sum towards the adult numeracy programme “Multiply”.
Chris said; “Having met the Prime Minister two weeks ago, I made clear that we need to see innovation and investment in Rural Dorset just as much priority as Bournemouth and Poole (BCP). Under the Dorset LEP (Local Enterprise Partnership), I felt rural West Dorset was not properly looked after under. I’m pleased the new funding, allocated to elected local authorities rather than an appointed board, will be more accessible, and fairer to West Dorset”.
Under the new round of funding, approved on the 5th December, Dorset will receive £4,435,812 via the Shared Prosperity Fund, with the key aims being “building pride in place, supporting high quality skills training, supporting pay, employment and productivity growth and increasing life chances”. Meanwhile an additional £1,578,278 is to be spent on the Adult Numeracy programme “Multiply”.
Chris continued; “This funding is unique to rural Dorset, meaning the Dorset Council area will have more autonomy to prioritise investment in our own area, and better reflect the needs and ambitions of our communities.”
