A TOWN centre is in the running to receive a share of millions of pounds set out by the government.

A bid by Trafford Council to get funding for regeneration on Stretford's high street has reached the second round of submissions.

The fund was launched by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MCHLG) in December and is designed to support and fund local areas’ plans to make their high streets and town centres fit for the future.

Stretford is among 50 centres nationally to be chosen to receive an initial payment of up to £150,000 to develop a full business case for capital investment by the FHSF following an Expression of Interest (EoI) earlier in the year.

Cllr James Wright, Trafford Council’s executive member for housing and regeneration, said: “Stretford deserves a great centre that is fit for the future.

"The Fund represents a fantastic opportunity to help the town centre reach its full potential and support delivery of our masterplan. Residents, communities and businesses are at the heart of all we do and I am looking forward to working with our partners in developing business case.”

If the scheme is progressed further, Trafford could receive significant funding from FHSF to support the delivery of the Refreshed Stretford Masterplan approved by the council last year to revitalise the area. This focused on improvements to public spaces, as well as securing a long-term solution for the Essoldo cinema, Stretford Mall and a mix-used development on Lacy Street.