Will Castleford Finally Get Its £20m Investment? Government Confirms Funding Is Back on Track

Good news for Castleford! The £20 million investment that was promised (but never delivered) by the previous government is now officially back on the table. This time, the funding is part of the Government’s new Plans for Neighbourhoods programme, aiming to support local projects over the next 10 years.

So, what does this mean for the town? And how will the money be spent?

£20m Confirmed for Castleford

After months of uncertainty, the Government has confirmed that Castleford is one of 75 towns set to receive funding through the new Plans for Neighbourhoods scheme. This replaces the investment announced in March last year, which never actually materialised.

Wakefield Council’s Leader, Cllr Denise Jeffery, welcomed the news, saying:

“This announcement will make sure we get the money promised for Castleford so we can continue to deliver for our residents.”

She also pointed out that this time, the funding feels more secure:

“This Government recognises the need for more investment. And this time we have the confidence that it’s a properly funded commitment.”

How Will the Money Be Used?

Instead of the council deciding how to spend the cash alone, a new Neighbourhood Board will be set up. This board will include:

• Residents
• Local businesses
• Community campaigners

Together, they’ll decide how the £20m is used to make the biggest impact on Castleford.

Cllr Jeffery reassured locals that they will be central to the process:

“We will make sure that residents and businesses are at the heart of this process so we can ensure this money is well spent for Castleford.”

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government will oversee the fund to make sure it’s used effectively.

When Will Castleford See the Investment?

The funding will roll out over the next 10 years, so while change won’t happen overnight, the town can expect long-term improvements. The next step is for the Government to provide more details on how and when the money will be released.

Castleford locals will be hoping this promise sticks—especially after last year’s funding fell through. But with a fresh approach and a commitment to local input, this time might just be different.

For more details, visit Plan for Neighbourhoods: Prospectus - GOV.UK.