HIGH streets across the region have been awarded a share of £831m Government funding to help them bounce back from the pandemic.

Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick announced yesterday that 72 areas across England will receive money to implement ambitious plans to improve transport infrastructure, build new homes and transform underused spaces.

Sunderland, Bishop Auckland, Blyth, Loftus, Middlesbrough, Stockton, Northallerton and South Shields will each receive funding.

This includes £16.54m for Stockton to fund a land bridge over Riverside Road between the High Street and River Tees, as well as a new urban park.

In Loftus, £5.83m will help develop a new library and museum, enhance green space and connectivity, and unlock a key residential site.

Local Growth Minister Luke Hall said: “This Government is committed to boosting economic growth across the regions as we build back better from the pandemic.

“Over £98 million from the Future High Streets Fund will help transform areas in the North-East, from enhancing green spaces and developing a workspace hub and museum in Loftus, to creating new leisure and retail amenities in Stockton on Tees.

“This investment will revive towns and cities across the North-East, bringing new jobs and first-class public services to the area.”

Middlesbrough MP Andy McDonald welcomed the investment, but warned more was needed.

He said: "These funding packages will be readily received but they are totally insufficient to redress the fundamental and massive damage caused by 11-years of Tory austerity and spending cuts which will continue to cause yet further damage.

"But with this pot of money, the task now is to ensure that every penny is spent wisely and that we get the absolute maximum benefit out of intelligent, evidence-based investments and bring much needed well-paid work to Middlesbrough.”

Meanwhile, , Historic England also announced yesterday that Middlesbrough, Northallerton and North Shields will each receive Heritage Action Zone grants of £119,740, £75,000 and £72,877 respectively.

This is for local arts organisations to deliver community-led cultural activities over the next three years.