Loughborough Town Deal is on track for a big 2025 as more projects are due to be completed and get underway, meaning more millions of pounds of investment for the area.
The Town Deal is backing 11 projects after securing £16.9 million from the Government’s Towns Fund and, in total, they are worth more than £40 million of investment.
Last year marked the completion of key schemes including the restoration of the John Taylor & Co Bellfoundry, new market stalls for Loughborough Market, a revamp of the outdoor space at Queen’s Park café and new events like Music in the Park being held in Southfields Park.
Work also started on the Generator arts and culture hub and the installation of the Hope Bell in Queen’s Park.
With other completed projects, including the upgrading of two kilometres of canal footpaths, the expansion of SportPark, and the regeneration of Bedford Square, almost £27 million has been invested into the area through Town Deal projects. This includes Government and partner funding.
Town Deal Board chair Martin Traynor OBE recently visited the Great Central Railway in Loughborough, which is also due to benefit from Town Deal support to the tune of £280,000.
Great Central Railway is using the funding to create a new space for school visits, improve welfare facilities for staff and volunteers, and add a train-driving simulator.
Martin said: “We are really excited for 2025 as Loughborough Town Deal projects continue to progress.
“We are anticipating work starting on the Digital Skills Hub at Loughborough College, the completion of the Generator and improvements at Great Central Railway.
“It was great to visit the railway and hear more about the project. It is a fascinating place and something Loughborough is proud of. I am pleased the Town Deal can invest in its future and support the visitor economy and preserve our heritage.”
Malcolm Holmes, Great Central Railway’s general manager, said: “We are investing in the future of Great Central Railway by improving the visitor and educational experience, which will help young people understand the country’s steam train heritage.
“We are grateful for the support from Loughborough Town Deal and look forward to completing the works, which are focused on the Locomotive Shed. We believe it will greatly improve the site for staff, volunteers and visitors.”
The Digital Skills Hub at Loughborough College will help to enhance the digital skills of the local workforce. It is receiving £2.6 million of Town Deal funding.
The Generator project is transforming a derelict 1930s building in Packe Street into a vibrant cultural centre for creative industries and community arts. The project received £1.6 million of Town Deal funding.
The Living Loughborough and Lanes and Links projects being led by the Council also continue and involve a number of different schemes. This year will see the completion of the Hope Bell and improved footpaths in Queen’s Park, a new canopy installed in Southfields Park and the addition of information screens in the town centre, alongside improved electrical infrastructure in the centre to support events.
