Town fails to win redevelopment cash

AN MP says he is still committed to getting support for his constituency’s high streets after a West Yorkshire town failed in its attempt to become a “Portas Pilot”.

By The Newsroom

Published 26th Jul 2012, 07:00 BST

Otley hoped to become one of 27 towns to win a share of funding through the £1.2m scheme launched by shops guru Mary Portas and Local Government Minister Grant Shapps in February.

But it was unsuccessful in its application to the second wave of the scheme, which will see money put aside to redevelop high streets.

Leeds North West MP Greg Mulholland has now signed a “Town Team Partner” pledge, which will see the country’s towns supported by a multi-million-pound programme to help put some elements of the plans into action.

“Whilst it’s disappointing that Otley’s bid to become a Portas Pilot has not been successful, I will be continuing to seek support for town centres and high streets across the constituency.

“It is vital for towns like Otley and Yeadon and areas like Headingley and Meanwood that they get support.”