We’re set to receive £400,000 to support projects that boost economic growth, infrastructure, skills, and innovation.
Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) are crucial for the UK to achieve net zero by 2050. There are currently 11 proposed projects of this kind in Essex – one of the highest amounts in any county in the UK. The projects explore the possibilities of energy generation in the East of England.
One of these is Longfield Solar Farm, located to the north of Chelmsford. When completed, this will be the largest solar farm in the UK. Other NSIPs in the county include:
- the A12 Chelmsford to A120 widening scheme
- Lower Thames Crossing
- offshore windfarms
Significant opportunities for Essex
Schemes like these bring significant investment opportunities for Essex. They can also lead to the creation of good jobs and boost the Essex supply chain.
We have won three pots of funding:
- £289,854 for the A12 Chelmsford to A120 Widening Scheme, if the development goes ahead.
- £97,360 to fund a new interactive tool of key biodiversity sites in Essex. This will support habitat creation and enhancement.
- £96,060 to develop new data management software for dealing with NSIPs. This is shared with Lincolnshire County Council. We will also recruit project management staff with the fund.
Councillor Lesley Wagland OBE, Special Lead Member for major infrastructure projects and freeports, said:
These successful bids are a fantastic achievement for Essex. A total of £400,000 in funding will help us to secure better infrastructure and community value from future Essex NSIPs.”