THE Minister for Levelling Up, The Union and Constitution, Neil O’Brien MP visited the Coventry Heritage Action Zone and Upper precinct last week to see the role that heritage has played in regenerating the local are.
To support public realm projects, £8million has been invested through the wider government (DLUHC) Local Growth and Getting Building Funds.
Mr O’Brien said: “It’s been really interesting to be in Coventry, and to see the difference the funding is making first hand.
“The funding has helped the buildings get a new lease of life and has really changed the feel of the city.
“This project is clearly making a different to Coventry and is keeping the rich heritage alive.”
The project is focused on the city centre where Historic England are working with their partners to transform Coventry through heritage.
It involves refurbishing shops, including conserving the historic fabric of the shop-fronts and facades thereby providing employment opportunities.
The improvements will bring abandoned upper floors back into use as housing and enhance the public realm and security to reduce anti-social behaviour.
It will also provide learning opportunities through traditional building and crafts apprenticeships.
The Minister added: “It’s really brilliant to see the fantastic heritage buildings that Coventry has got.
“It’s exciting to see the future of the city, making it somewhere that not only people come to to enjoy but also to invest.
“The West Midlands does seem to be on its way up, Coventry especially with the new transport connectivity and culture events.
“It’s a very exciting time for Coventry.”
