Data Shows Majority of Levelling Up Projects Remain Unfinished

Freedom of information data reveals that 821 out of 1,347 levelling up projects remained unfinished as of May 2026. The figures, covering the Future High Streets Fund, Town Deals, and the Levelling Up Fund, indicate a failure to meet the Conservative government's promises of rapid regional equality. Delivery was slowest in Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, North-west England, and Yorkshire, with 73 council areas failing to complete a single project.

Officials attribute these delays to rising costs driven by inflation and a centralized funding model that created a begging bowl culture. In response, the Labour Party government consolidated these existing funds into the Local Regeneration Fund, establishing a new completion deadline of March 2028.

To replace the previous competitive grant system, the government launched the £5.8bn Pride in Place programme. This initiative shifts management to local boards to provide long-term stability. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated it is committed to driving good growth in every postcode by providing local leaders with long-term targeted funding.