Long Eaton project expected to receive share of East Midlands mayor's £25m investment fund

The Erewash Borough is included in a list of ten schemes in line to share million of pounds of investment as part of regional Mayor Claire Ward's plans to boost growth, create jobs and improve the region.

Funding has been earmarked for a string of projects set to bring real benefits to places and people across the region, by improving town centres, supporting small businesses, creating jobs and helping communities grow in a greener, more sustainable way.

East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) board members have now approved the schemes to enter EMCCA’s £25m Investment Fund pipeline.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “This funding marks another major step forward in our shared ambition to unlock the potential of the East Midlands. Inclusive growth is at the heart of everything we do and we’re ensuring the benefits of investment reach every part of our region, from our cities to our towns and villages.

“These projects will help create new opportunities, drive innovation, and support local jobs, all while strengthening the foundations of our communities.”

Projects under consideration include the Long Eaton Town Deal, supporting the development of high-quality infrastructure and enhancement of the Long Eaton Town Deal as part of a wider programme of works led by Erewash Borough Council.

Others include the construction of a business centre at the site of the former Stapleford Pencil Works, and nine new-starter business units in Giltbrook.

Mayor Claire said: “We’re working with partners to build a region that celebrates its heritage while looking confidently to the future. I’m committed to making the East Midlands a place where everyone has the chance to thrive, contribute, and feel proud to call home.”

Board members discussed the proposal at their meeting on Monday 24th November 2025, and each project will now go through final due diligence to secure the funding.

This latest funding round builds on the progress EMCCA is already making in the region, including delivering significant capital investment projects to support the East Midlands Growth Plan.
Successes include:

• South Derbyshire Growth Zone, which was backed by Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet in October;
• Demolition of the Broadmarsh shopping centre in Nottingham which is due to begin later this year;
• Delivering the Infinity Prototyping Centre, a new innovation, research, and development space, at the Infinity Park East Midlands Investment Zonesite in Derby.

EMCCA is also continuing to work with partners to bring forward other projects, with a further round of funding decisions set to be reviewed by EMCCA’s Board in early 2026.

Cllr Neghat Khan, Leader of Nottingham City Council and EMCCA board Portfolio Lead for Investment, said: “As the Portfolio Lead for Investment on EMCCA’s Board, I’m proud that these projects are being funded which will benefit the region so much.

“We have seen locally in Nottingham what a huge difference can be made, for example, the funding Nottingham City Council received to assist with demolition at Broad Marsh which has unlocked regeneration and thousands of future homes.”

Cllr Rob Reaney, Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Regeneration, said: “We’re working in partnership with our district and borough council colleagues on these projects as part of our wider regeneration plans for the whole of the county.

“With the support of funding from EMCCA, they will make a real difference to local residents by boosting businesses, bringing benefits to our local economy and improving spaces within our communities.”

Cllr Nadine Peatfield, Derby City Council Leader and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, said: “We wholeheartedly welcome the inclusion of the Becketwell development in the EMCCA Investment Fund Pipeline – a powerful demonstration of confidence in Derby's future.

“With the success of the Grainger build-to-rent scheme and the incredible Vaillant Live venue already established, Becketwell is clearly delivering on its promise. We will continue working with partners to complete this flagship scheme and transform a key part of our city."