Ashington is to benefit from millions of pounds in Government funding that will go towards making "transformational" improvements for the town centre.
The cash was included as part of Wednesday's Government budget, with over £16m made available to support regeneration in the town and invest in infrastructure to improve everyday life for people in Ashington.
Funding will be used to support major new projects to boost the town centre including leisure, culture and community facilities at Wansbeck Square and Portland Park.
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It comes after there was widespread anger from local politicians when the town's levelling up bid was unsuccessful.
Northumberland County Council Leader Councillor Glen Sanderson explained that the investment had gone into the budget after a recent visit from Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove.
Coun Sanderson said: “This is absolutely great news for Ashington town centre and testament to all the work our County Council has devoted to the town.
"The inclusion in the budget follows the Secretary of State’s recent visit to the county where the issues was specifically raised with him.
“So much work has gone into working together to build positive plans for the town so today's announcement is testament to the commitment of everyone involved, from residents and businesses through to councillors, Town Board members and all the other partners that we have secured this funding to transform the area.”
The council has said the money will help ensure Ashington "capitalises on the development of the new train station" being built as part of the Northumberland Line. Further information about the detailed plans will be announced later this year.
John Johnston, chief executive of Bernicia and chair of the Ashington Town Board, said: "Partners have worked closely with the County Council to identify a range of projects, that alongside other exciting proposals - such as the re-establishment of passenger rail services to Ashington and a new College campus, will collectively transform our town centre.
“Today’s announcement will be of great benefit to both residents and visitors and will act as a catalyst for further economic growth in our town. We’re looking forward to working in partnership with everyone in the town to deliver real and lasting change in the future.”
The Portland Park development has been known locally as the "Ashington hole" and has been the subject of much debate. In 2017, the council's Conservative administration replaced plans for a new council HQ on the site with a cinema and retail park.
Labour's Coun Caroline Ball, who represents the Ashington Central ward, welcomed the funding - but felt the town needed more in the future.
She said: "I welcome £16m for the town centre and I hope it is the first of many pots of money coming to Ashington. For me, money brings money, it brings jobs and more opportunities to the town. I can't wait to see the end of the Ashington hole.
"Is it enough for what we need? Probably not - £16m is a drop in the ocean when you consider that the Morpeth Leisure Centre was £21m.
"I look forward to future investments as we need more."
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