SALISBURY is in the running to benefit from major investment to help improve the city centre for residents, businesses and visitors.

Wiltshire Council received confirmation its multi-million-pound bid for investment for the city from the government’s Future High Streets Funds has been shortlisted and will now go onto the next stage.

The fund is a £675m central government pot of money that is open for applications from towns and cities throughout England.

It recognises the continuing importance of high streets as places where commerce and community meet, and aims to support high streets as they change to meet the needs and expectations of communities now and in the future.

Pauline Church, Wiltshire Council cabinet member for South Wiltshire Recovery, said: "This is great news for Salisbury.

“We will now move on with our partners and the community to secure this major investment which will boost our ongoing efforts to grow the economy, increase tourism and ensure sustainability in Salisbury.

“Our beautiful city has overcome huge challenges and now we’re ready for the next step to ensure Salisbury has a strong future.”

Towns across England will join 50 successful areas already shortlisted and develop plans to reinvent their high streets.

The extension to the shortlist comes on the back of the £3.6 billion Towns Fund announced by the Prime Minister last month, which included an additional £325 million for the Future High Streets Fund, taking the overall Fund to £1 billion as the government looks to drive forward local growth.

Each of the successful communities will receive immediate revenue funding of up to £150,000 to develop their bids, and then will be eligible for up to £25 million of capital investment to invest in infrastructure, housing and work spaces.

These projects will transform high streets and town centres, bringing long-term economic benefits.

John Glen MP for Salisbury and South Wiltshire said: “For many weeks I have been working with Cllr Pauline Church and Wiltshire Council officers locally whilst lobbying ministerial colleagues in Whitehall. The decision to shortlist Salisbury reflects well on the quality of the bid and demonstrates the Government’s understanding of the challenges and opportunities that exist in our great city. I will continue to use any other influence I have for the good of the people of Salisbury.”

Trowbridge also joins Salisbury in being successfully shortlisted for the next stage of funding.

Communities Secretary Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP said: “Town centres and high streets are at the heart of local communities. As consumer habits change we know that some are facing challenging times. Our plan to help the high street evolve and thrive involves investing £1 billion in transformative infrastructure, town centre housing, workspaces and culture - as well as cutting business rates for most smaller shops and businesses.

"Today I’m announcing the next 50 of 100 communities to benefit from our £1 billion Future High Streets Fund. With support these areas will produce long term plans and receive up to £25m each to make them a reality.

"Salisbury and Trowbridge have the potential to be front and centre of this approach, embracing technology, transport and culture to engage existing residents and visitors alike in new, modern connected spaces.

"This government is investing to ensure our towns and cities succeed and prosperity and opportunities are shared across the country.”