Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what plans his Department has to ensure that the Local Growth Fund provides (a) continuity for UK Shared Prosperity Fund programmes, (b) equivalent levels of funding in real terms and (c) clarity on the (i) timeline and (ii) decision-making framework for implementation of projects in Northern Ireland.

As announced at the Spending Review, from 2026-27 the UK Government will provide targeted, long-term local growth funding to support growth across the UK, once the UK Shared Prosperity Fund ends in March 2026.

In Northern Ireland, we are working closely with the Northern Ireland Office to implement and develop the new Local Growth Fund, in collaboration with the Northern Ireland Executive. The Government is committed to engagement with key stakeholders in Northern Ireland to help implement a package of funding that meets local needs and delivers impact. More information on the development of the Local Growth Fund in Northern Ireland and engagement plans will be set out soon.