By Eniola Amadu
A centre of excellence for science, technology, engineering and maths is to be built following the announcement of £16m funding by the UK Chancellor in her budget.
Rachel Reeves noted that the facility to be located at Darlington would give “opportunity for young people with clear routes from school into good jobs with decent pay”.
According to the government, the construction at the Darlington Science Park is expected to begin mid next year and is subject to final approval.
Conservative member: Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen backed the announcement, saying, “Any investment that drives our region forward”.
The funding of this project is expected from the Growth Mission Fund, an infrastructure investment programme aimed at facilitating economic growth.
The government was “delivering for Darlington”, Reeves said.
Speaking on the move, she stated: “This investment will create pathways into careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics for everyone, not just those who can afford expensive degrees.
“Darlington worked hard for this funding and won it – as this government backs local communities with real investment that delivers tangible results, jobs, skills, and opportunities for working families.”
Houchen, questioning the additional tax revealed in the budget, tagged the science centre as “exactly the kind of boost we should be welcoming”.
He said: “This project will build on the huge success we’ve already delivered by bringing the Treasury and thousands of civil service jobs right into the heart of Darlington town centre”.
“This is another tough budget for working people, but it’s promising to see the government recognises the continued strength of Darlington as a place for innovation, skills and good-quality jobs” he added.
