Mayor of West Yorkshire expresses disappointment as vital funding is reduced

Mayor responds as Government announces UK shared prosperity fund, with around one-third less money for West Yorkshire.

13 April 2022

Following today’s (13 April) announcement of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities, the Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, said:   

“The fact our region will be receiving less money than it received from the EU Structural Funds is extremely disappointing, with our region receiving around one- third less than we received over previous years.  

“The people of West Yorkshire were promised the equivalent of EU support if we left the European Union. Today’s announcement means our communities will be worse-off.  

Government has said that the UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a key part of their efforts to level-up the UK. This funding cut for our region is another decision that yet again undermines levelling up 

“As ever, we’ll make the most of what we have, working with partners to invest in our incredible businesses and people, ensuring that all opportunities are available to anyone in West Yorkshire.   

“As we recover from the pandemic, we will work to improve the region’s transport networks, becoming net-zero by 2038, while ensuring our creative industries are a part of the region’s economic recovery. 

“West Yorkshire, the heart of the North, is a fantastic place to live, work and raise a family, and despite this disappointing news we will continue to flourish.” 

As ever, we’ll make the most of what we have, working with partners to invest in our incredible businesses and people, ensuring that all opportunities are available to anyone in West Yorkshire.

Tracy Brabin Mayor of West Yorkshire

West Yorkshire’s allocation is broken down as follows: 

Estimate of previous EU Structural Funds allocation over three years: £105, 000, 000 

Shared Prosperity Fund : £68, 002, 877 

In addition the Government has announced funding for the Multiply programme: £12, 483, 680