Over the past two years, we've seen what a government focused on delivering for working people can achieve. After years of communities like ours being overlooked, Labour is investing in Dover and Deal once again, ensuring local people see real improvements in their daily lives. Whether it's supporting our schools, protecting our coastline, investing in our heritage or creating opportunities for young people, this government is delivering for our constituency.
Heritage Investment: Walmer Castle
One of the most exciting announcements has been the investment of just over £3 million for Walmer Castle through the Arts Everywhere Fund. Walmer Castle is one of our area's most treasured historic landmarks, and this funding will help secure its future by carrying out essential roof repairs. Preserving our heritage isn't just about protecting historic buildings; it's about supporting tourism, creating local jobs and ensuring future generations can continue to enjoy everything our area has to offer.
Education and Breakfast Clubs
Labour is also making sure every child gets the best possible start to the school day. More than 500 primary school children across Dover and Deal are now benefiting from free breakfast clubs, helping families with the cost of living while ensuring children arrive in the classroom ready to learn. It's a simple policy that makes a real difference to parents and pupils alike.
Flood Defence Investments
Living on the coast means we understand the importance of protecting our homes and communities from flooding. That's why I'm delighted that 2,666 properties across Dover and Deal are now better protected thanks to increased investment in flood defences. Alongside this, Deal Beach will receive £350,000 for essential flood defence maintenance, helping safeguard homes, businesses and our beautiful coastline for years to come.
Children's Play Areas and SEND Funding
We're also investing in places where families come together. Across the country, Labour is investing £18 million into children's play areas, with Dover receiving a share of this funding. Safe, modern play spaces help children stay active, support their development and strengthen our local communities. Education and opportunity remain at the heart of Labour's mission. Kent County Council is receiving £28 million in SEND funding, providing greater support for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities, helping ensure every child receives the education they deserve.
Skills and Renewable Energy
For older students and young adults, Labour is investing in their futures too. More than £13 million has been allocated across the South East to expand construction placements, including opportunities through the EKC Group. These placements will equip young people with valuable skills, helping them access well-paid careers while supporting the construction industry with the workforce it needs. We're also embracing the opportunities of clean energy. Through Great British Energy, a new solar panel array has been installed at Goodwin Academy. Over the lifetime of the panels, the school is expected to save around £125,000 on its energy bills - money that can instead be spent on improving education and supporting pupils. It's a great example of how investing in renewable energy benefits both our environment and our public services.
Pride in Place and Future Plans
All of these investments show what can be achieved when government works in partnership with local communities. But this is only the beginning. I'm especially excited about the Pride in Place project, which will see £20 million invested into parts of Dover over the next decade. This long-term commitment has the potential to transform neighbourhoods, improve public spaces, support local businesses and give residents even greater pride in the place they call home. After years of missed opportunities, Dover and Deal are moving forward once again. I'm proud that Labour is delivering the investment our communities deserve, and I'm determined to keep working every day to ensure our constituency continues to benefit from the opportunities ahead.
