Avanti West Coast contract extended for a further 6 months following recent service improvements
The Department for Transport has extended Avanti West Coast’s contract for a further 6 months after significant improvements have been made since October. This decision comes almost 6 months after the operator was initially put on a short-term contract by the government and ordered to develop a recovery plan aimed at addressing poor performance on […]
Over 70 cultural venues, museums and libraries supported with £60 million boost
More than 70 cultural organisations across the country are to be given a financial boost by the government so they can improve people’s access to arts, support local economic growth through culture and safeguard vital local collections for future generations. They will share a pot of £58.8 million which will see arts venues transformed, upgraded […]
New levy to make sure developers pay fair share for affordable housing and local infrastructure
A new levy will see developers pay a fairer share for affordable housing and local infrastructure such as roads, schools and GP surgeries the Government has announced. The infrastructure levy, which will replace section 106 contributions for most developments, will prevent developers from negotiating down the amount they contribute to the community when they bring […]
New framework to ensure road and rail development projects protect the environment
An updated framework with measures to protect the environment in new major road, rail, and rail freight schemes has been unveiled by the government. The framework has been updated to reflect legislation set out in the Environment Act, which requires developers to recognise new environmental targets and sets out further details on biodiversity net gains. […]
Energy bills support extended for an extra three months
The Energy Price Guarantee, which is protecting households by capping typical energy bills at £2,500, will be maintained at the same level for a further three months over April, May, and June, worth £160 in total for a typical household. The Chancellor’s three-month extension of the Energy Price Guarantee at £2,500 means households won’t feel […]
UK announces increased funding for China Capabilities Programme
The Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is increasing funding to further boost skills and knowledge for government staff on China, including on economic and military policy as well as Mandarin language skills. Extra financial support will be provided for the cross-department ‘China Capabilities Programme’ which operates to increase Chinese expertise across the UK government. Read the full story
New fund announced to support UK’s national security priorities
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced the launch of a new fund to help keep the UK safe and address global sources of volatility and insecurity. The UK Integrated Security Fund (UKISF) will replace the existing Conflict, Stability and Security Fund (CSSF), and will have a wider remit, funding projects both at home and overseas […]
Transport Secretary sets out record investment plans for transport network
The Transport Secretary has ensured record funding is invested in the country’s transport network, sustainably driving growth across the country while managing the pressures of inflation. As part of the government’s largest capital programme commitment ever, over £40 billion will be invested in transformational transport schemes over the next 2 financial years across the country, […]
Proposed changes to Conway Street and Grafton Way
At the end of 2022 we consulted on whether or not to make the trial Streatery (space for outdoor dining/drinking) outside the Lore of the Land pub on Conway Street permanent. Following the consultation, the decision was made to take it out and to revert both Conway Street and Grafton Way to their original layout. […]
Energy Bills Discount Scheme
The Energy Bill Relief Scheme currently provides a discount on wholesale gas and electricity prices for all non-domestic consumers. This includes public sector organisations, voluntary sector organisations like charities, and businesses. The new scheme therefore strikes a balance between supporting businesses over the next 12 months and limiting taxpayer’s exposure to volatile energy markets, with a cap […]
