Wrexham: Council’s decision gateway funding slammed by MP
Proposals to put a substantial amount of GBP25m of Welsh Government funding towards the Wrexham Gateway Project were given the green light during an Executive Board meeting held on Tuesday. The Wrexham Gateway aims to regenerate key sites and transport infrastructure around Mold Road, which is described as ‘a key corridor into the city’. The project includes improvements to rail, bus and car travel connectivity, new hotel and conference facilities, office space, and improvements to the Racecourse stadium that will allow international football to return to North Wales.[1]
The new finance proposals will help fund the western side, including the Racecourse Ground and new kop to return international football to the stadium and deliver regional and national events. However, the plans have been heavily criticised by Delyn MP Rob Roberts, who said that the money should not be going to a ‘private sports club owned by multi-millionaires. He added: “So, whilst I’m very keen to see Wrexham AFC thriving and progressing through the divisions, I have to object to a privately-owned sports club being given GBP25m of taxpayers’ funds to build a new stand.
“In North Wales the NHS buildings and estate is crumbling. We have no dentists. People are spending years on waiting lists.
Our educational attainment is the lowest in the UK. Social care is on its knees. Roads are falling apart.
“And so on and so on. “And rather than trying to fix any of the myriad problems caused by Welsh Labour the Welsh Government decides to provide a non-repayable grant of GBP25m to a private sports club owned by multi-millionaires. Give them a loan if you want.
No problem with that. But the Welsh Government shouldn’t be subsidising businesses in this way.” Rob Roberts.
A number of Leader readers share a similar view with the Delyn MP, with Gwenda Parry Strong saying on our Facebook page: “It would have been better spent on our health Services in Wrexham, which could save lives.” Kevin Coleman added: “So councils can get additional funding off the Senedd for developments like this but struggle to get additional funding for schools, hospitals.” Meanwhile, a number of readers welcomed the news, Rory Coulthwaite said: “Good to see our money go to something that adds value to the town!
The club pulls in a lot of lot and interest from the wider community.” David Alun Hughes added: “This doesn’t affect any of the local budgets and is coming from central government. If it isn’t used on this project, then Wrexham don’t get the money it’s basically additional funding!
Be crazy not to follow through with this. Good for the club, the area, jobs, infrastructure, tourism, further investment, etc.” A Welsh Government Spokesperson, said: “The Wrexham Gateway will benefit a large part of north east Wales and include the creation of a road / rail public transport interchange, new business premises and homes.
“It will help us to realise our ambition to return competitive international fixtures in football, rugby union and rugby league to North Wales which will provide a big economic boost to the area.” When discussing the proposed plans, Councillor Mark Pritchard, Leader of Wrexham Council, said: “The Wrexham Gateway is a massive project that will transform one of the main corridors into the city. “It’s ambitious, but we need to be ambitious if we want to fulfil our potential as Wales’ newest city, and as the home of Welsh football.
“A key element is the development of the new kop.
The incredible things happening at the club are propelling Wrexham onto a global stage, and football is bringing communities together, boosting local pride and helping to attract visitors and investment.
“So helping to secure finance to develop the Racecourse – so it can once again host international fixtures – is hugely important for Wrexham, and the benefits will be felt far beyond the football pitch.”
References
- ^ international football to return to North Wales. (www.leaderlive.co.uk)