The Government has launched a £700 million Strategic Sites Accelerator to help unlock up to ten major industrial and commercial developments across the United Kingdom, with ministers targeting up to £2 billion of private investment.
Announced on 2 November 2026, the scheme aims to help commercially viable projects delayed by infrastructure, planning or financing obstacles. The jobs and private-investment figures are targets, not confirmed results.
How will the £700 million fund work?
The Strategic Sites Accelerator will target six to ten nationally significant developments. Support can take the form of loans, equity investment, targeted grants and technical advice. The full £700 million is not necessarily non-repayable grant expenditure. Each investment remains subject to commercial assessment, due diligence and approval.
Government targets £2 billion in private investment
Ministers aim to attract up to £2 billion in private finance and say supported projects could generate tens of thousands of jobs over time. These are ambitions rather than investment or employment already secured. Outcomes depend on the sites chosen and their successful delivery.
Potential sites in Glasgow, Sheffield and Burgess Hill
Government officials are already working with local partners on possible developments in Glasgow, Sheffield and Burgess Hill, West Sussex. Early technical assistance includes the proposed Burgess Hill science and technology park and Runway Park in South Yorkshire’s Don Valley Corridor. None should be described as a confirmed recipient of a final investment award.
Other regions being considered
Further opportunities are being explored in Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire, the West Midlands, South Yorkshire, Liverpool City Region, the North East, Glasgow City Region and Cardiff Capital Region. The programme is open to eligible sites across the UK.
What industries will benefit?
The Government is focusing on high-growth sectors including advanced manufacturing, digital technology, defence and life sciences. Eligible projects must demonstrate commercial demand but face barriers such as grid connections, planning constraints, land assembly or finance.
Who will run the scheme?
The Office for Investment and National Wealth Fund will jointly deliver the programme, with CBRE appointed national delivery partner. No10 North will work with mayors and local leaders to identify opportunities and resolve practical obstacles.
What ministers said
Chancellor John Healey said the package would help local leaders remove barriers to growth. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said outdated infrastructure, limited finance and planning problems were holding back promising developments. Their statements describe government intentions rather than independently verified outcomes.
Questions about value for money
Final sites, individual awards and private-sector contributions remain unconfirmed. Public loans and equity may generate returns, but carry financial risk. Assessment of the scheme will depend on whether projects proceed, private investment materialises and jobs are created.
What happens next?
Applications are open until 19 January 2027. The Government intends to support six to ten sites during this Parliament, subject to assessment and approvals. Future announcements should identify selected projects and specific funding commitments.