BURNHAM & Highbridge councillor Ganesh Gudka has said it is 'disappointing' to hear comments made by James Heappey MP not supporting a recent regeneration bid for Highbridge.
He said: "I feel that by categorising the plans for Highbridge as "cosmetic" he has missed the importance of building on the tremendous work already one by new businesses to make the town centre more attractive and inviting."
Earlier this week, the bid was been submitted for ‘Levelling Up’ funding by Sedgemoor District Council.
Wells MP James Heappey raised his “growing concerns” about parts of the bid with the councils before it was submitted.
He said: “Regeneration in Shepton and Highbridge and a step change in the tourism offer at Cheddar were the right focus for the bid, and we were all in agreement on that from the outset."
In Highbridge, the funding has been earmarked to deliver regeneration in Market Street and Bank Street, create a new community centre in Trowbridge Close, and improve the cycling route to Burnham-on-Sea.
Councillor Ganesh Gudka said: "It is disappointing that our MP has said he has issues with the Levelling Up Bid for Highbridge. It was put together by experienced officers and consultants with a track record of successful bids to this fund, and with support from local representatives.
"The proposals are intended to encourage local people and visitors to reach
the town centre through active transport, spend more time there, experience an improved shopping experience,use local community and sports facilities and improve the railway station and its access.
"I remain convinced - and I think this is a view that will be widely shared by other Town Councillors - that this is the most sustainable way to support local businesses and employment and revitalise the area. I remain hopeful that the bid will be reviewed in that light and will be successful."
He added that: "It is important to remember that the Levelling Up bid , worth around £8m to Highbridge, is only part of a wider Highbridge regeneration strategy which is being drawn up. The contents of the bid are largely determined by the Fund criteria and the stipulation that any projects in it must be capable of starting in the near future."
READ MORE: Councils submit Levelling Up Fund bid despite MP’s concerns
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