West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin has welcomed a Government initiative which will see £1.3 million spent on local rural job creation.

The cash award is part of the £110 million Rural England Prosperity Fund and will be allocated to Wychavon and Malvern Hills District Councils to support projects which will help to create jobs and expand business.

This is on top of the £1.5 billion UK Shared Prosperity Fund which replaces the funding which was allocated from European Union funds to support growth.

Both councils are currently developing their plans for delivering the cash to boost rural businesses including those in the agricultural and horticultural sectors and tourism businesses.

Harriett said:

“The Government is allocating significant cash to local authorities to replace the European Regional Development Fund. This new strategy encourages local authorities to find and support projects which will enhance opportunities for rural businesses.

“I am aware that Wychavon and Malvern Hills District Councils are developing their plans and I look forward to seeing how this cash will help our rural economy to thrive.”