In the past 3 years, more than £12million has been invested in projects that have transformed lives, revitalised communities, and supported local businesses.
Since 2022, various initiatives and projects funded by the UKSPF programme and administered by Shropshire Council have provided targeted support in three key areas: Supporting Local Business, Community & Place, and People & Skills.
Supporting Local Business Growth
£5 million has been invested in supporting Shropshire’s business community. From start-ups to established enterprises, over 1,400 businesses have received tailored support, including grants, innovation vouchers, and advice on energy efficiency, marketing, and leadership.
The programme has helped create 204 new jobs, supported 90 new business start-ups, and saved over 6,600 tonnes of CO₂ through sustainability initiatives.
Business Boost 360 was one of the business support initiatives funded through UKSPF. Signing up for this Shropshire Growth Hub programme meant that Rachael of Rachael Brown Equine Chiropractor was able to launch 2 new services, streamline her business operations and access further funding.
Rachael said,
“Signing up for Business Boost and working with the team at the Shropshire Growth Hub has had a real positive impact on my business.”
Revitalising Shropshire’s Communities and Places
The Community and Place priority received £3.5 million in capital and revenue funding, with an additional £1.7 million from the Rural Fund. Together, these investments have supported 28 projects across the county.
The funding has supported town centre improvements, restoration of heritage and cultural assets, and the creation of new green spaces and cycle routes. Community cinemas, arts events, and infrastructure support for grassroots organisations have also benefitted, boosting local engagement and volunteering.
Key achievements have included the support of 731 local events and activities, the creation of 610 volunteer opportunities, the improvement of 950,410 square metres of green/blue space, and the upgrade of 18 footpaths and cycleways.
The Montgomery Canal Restoration was one of the recipients of UKSPF funding and reported a positive impact on both the local economy, and the local community.
John Dodwell, Chair of the Montgomery Canal Partnership, said:-
“The funding has allowed us to improve the towpath and the canal channel itself, plus the biodiversity of the area will also benefit greatly because of the work we’ve been able to do.
“This funding has not just helped to restore a wonderful part of our heritage – which is over 200 years old – but will also impact positively on economic regeneration and tourism in the area.”
Empowering People and Skills Development
With £1.6 million allocated to the People and Skills strand, Shropshire has delivered five major projects focused on employability, digital inclusion, and workforce development. 98% of this funding has been utilised in life transforming projects.
Programmes have supported those individuals considered to be the furthest from the labour market by helping them to gain qualifications and the confidence to re-enter employment.
Community-based learning initiatives have tackled digital exclusion, while partnerships with local employers have been strengthened and ensured that training aligns with the needs of Shropshire’s changing economy.
Cameron Atwal, Assistant Project Manager at the School of Coding & AI says:-
“Thanks to UKSPF funding, we’ve equipped people across Shropshire with essential digital skills that change lives. From gaining confidence in using technology to applying new tools at work, the impact has been incredible. These courses unlock potential, create opportunities, and keep our communities ahead in the digital world. At School of Coding & AI, we’re proud to bridge the digital divide across the county.”
Creating A Foundation for the Future
UK Shared Prosperity Funding has laid the groundwork for long-term prosperity in Shropshire. With strong outcomes already achieved, Shropshire Council is committed to building on this momentum and ensuring continued investment in people, places, and enterprise.
Cllr Rob Wilson, Shropshire Council Cabinet Member for Transport and Economic Growth said:-
“The award of this funding for these specific priorities has enabled us to invest in the future of the county despite the financial challenges the Council has faced.
“It’s been about giving people the tools they need to succeed, future-proof our economy, and revitalise our communities to build a more inclusive, connected, and resilient Shropshire for the future.”
Further Information
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) is a fund allocated by the UK government and managed by local authorities in partnership with local stakeholders. Its purpose is to replace the funding previously provided by Europe and to address inequalities between communities.
The overarching objective of the fund is to build pride in place and increase life chances. The programme includes 3 investment priorities:
- Supporting Local Business
- Community and Place
- People and Skills
Recently, Shropshire was awarded a further £1,431,774 capital and £2,892,904 revenue funding for 2025/6 enabling many of the projects and initiatives to continue for another year.
For more information about the fund see https://www.investinshropshire.co.uk/relocating-and-investing/uk-shared-prosperity-fund/
For more information about the projects supported by the fund in Shropshire see https://www.investinshropshire.co.uk/uk-shared-prosperity-projects/
