MORE money could be spent on improving high streets, shops and community buildings in Barnsley’s towns and villages after councillors backed plans to seek up to £21m in additional regeneration funding.

The decision was taken by ruling cabinet members that would allow the council to apply to the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority’s ‘Gainshare Fund’ for funding over the next five years.

A report to councillors said the money could be used to support small businesses with grants and advice, help bring empty shops back into use and improve public spaces such as streets, squares and seating areas.

It could also fund work to refurbish community buildings and support new housing schemes for residents with specific needs.

So far, £15m has been committed through the programme, with £11.9m already spent and a further £3.1m approved.

More than 50 projects have been delivered in places including Wombwell, Hoyland, Penistone, Goldthorpe, Royston and Cudworth.

Recent schemes include new paving, planters and seating on Wombwell High Street, upgrades to Penistone Town Hall, improvements to Hoyland Town Square and refurbishments to community centres in villages such as Royston and Bolton-upon-Dearne.

The council said the next phase would focus on helping town centres adapt as shopping habits change, tackling long-term vacant units and making local centres easier and more welcoming to use.