DUDLEY South’s MP is urging Black Country companies to bid for shares of a £350 million growth cash pot.

Chris Kelly has welcomed the opening of the next round of Regional Growth Fund applications. It is the fourth round of funding, bringing the total amount to £2.6 billion.

The first three rounds of funding, £424 million invested in West Midlands from the fund has supported 87,484 jobs.

Mr Kelly said: ‘I want to encourage all companies in Dudley and the Black Country to take advantage of this next round of investment from the Regional Growth Fund.

“This £350 million of investment will help businesses grow and could support thousands of new jobs in the West Midlands.

“This fund is part of the Government’s relentless drive to support economic growth across the country and rebalance the economy. This is in addition to boosting investment in apprenticeships, making it easier to create new businesses, cutting regulation and encouraging existing firms to export.”