Andrew Rosindell, Member of Parliament for Romford, has received a response from the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, regarding the Government's steps to better protect green spaces in the constituency. The question, answer, and Andrew's statement can be viewed below:
Question:
To ask the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, what steps his Department is undertaking to (a) protect and (b) enhance green spaces in Romford constituency. (193327)
Tabled on: 11 July 2023
Answer:
Dehenna Davison:
Parks and green spaces in Romford and across the UK are integral to communities' wellbeing, as well as their physical and mental health. Parks also contribute economic benefits to the local area.
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025, with all areas of the UK receiving an allocation via a funding formula rather than competition.
Through the Levelling Up Parks Fund we have made available £9 million in equal grants for local authorities in areas which rate highly on the Index of Multiple Deprivation, to create or significantly refurbish green spaces.
In response, Andrew has issued the following statement:
"I am delighted to welcome the U.K. Shared Prosperity Fund (U.K.S.P.F.) initiative to protect and enhance green spaces in Romford. This is a vital investment in our community's wellbeing, physical and mental health, and economic prosperity.
Parks and green spaces are essential for people of all ages and abilities. They provide a place to relax, exercise, play, and connect with nature. They also help to reduce air pollution and improve air quality.
The U.K.S.P.F. funding will be used to create new green spaces, refurbish existing ones, and improve access to them. This will make a real difference to the lives of people in Romford – a far better way of tackling pollution than Mayor Khan’s U.L.E.Z.!
I would like to thank the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities for their commitment to this important initiative. I am confident that the U.K.S.P.F. will make a significant difference to Romford and I look forward to seeing the results of this investment in the years to come.
In addition to the U.K.S.P.F., I am also working with local partners to ensure better usage of green space projects in Romford. I am committed to ensuring that our community has access to the high-quality green spaces that it needs to thrive."
