Samantha Dixon, MP for Chester North and Neston, has welcomed the Government’s latest Spending Review, which outlines a long-term plan to invest in public services and deliver tangible improvements to communities across the country — including in Chester North and Neston.
The Spending Review includes a major funding boost for the NHS, with an extra £29 billion a year to support more appointments, recruit more doctors, and improve hospital services. It also delivers the biggest investment in affordable housing in a generation, aimed at delivering 1.5 million new homes to help more people onto the housing ladder and tackle housing pressures in our communities.
Locally, residents can expect to benefit from a significant uplift in transport investment. The Government is committing £750 million annually to improve and maintain bus services across the country — and crucially, Cheshire West and Chester has been selected to pilot a new bus franchising model. This means local authorities will have greater control over routes, fares, and timetables, helping to shape a public transport network that better meets the needs of residents and communities.
Ms Dixon also welcomed support for regional rail infrastructure, with upcoming plans to improve connections on the North Wales Main Line and the Wrexham–Bidston line, which are key travel corridors between Chester and North Wales.
In addition to transport and housing, the Spending Review includes further support for families. Free school meals are being extended, and the Warm Homes Plan is being strengthened to help households save on energy bills — with potential savings of up to £600 off bills. The Spending Review also sets aside funding to rebuild schools, improve energy efficiency in homes, and support local job creation.
Reflecting on the Spending Review, Samantha Dixon said:
“I know many families in Chester North and Neston are feeling the impact of the rising cost of living, but this Spending Review brings real investment where it’s needed most. From major transport upgrades to vital support for our health service and schools, it’s a budget that focuses on long-term priorities and builds a stronger foundation for our community.”
“I’m especially proud that our area is leading the way with the new bus franchising model — giving us greater local control over services and the ability to shape a network that actually works for people.”
Further updates on local delivery plans are expected over the coming months, and the MP has committed to keeping residents informed as more details become available.