Newly-elected MP Alex Ballinger used his first question in the House of Commons to speak out on behalf of town centres.

The former Royal Marine asked for a debate on town centres on behalf of his Halesowen constituency including the shopping areas of Cradley Heath, Old Hill, Shell Corner and Quarry Bank.

The Labour MP also asked for an update on the £20 million levelling-up fund grant promised by the last Conservative Government for Halesowen town centre.

Alex, who overturned a Tory majority in the general election to win the seat for Labour, said it was important that his first question was about an issue which emerged on the election trail.

He said: “During the campaign I spoke to many constituents and business owners worried about the state of our high streets.

"We have much to celebrate in town centres such as Cradley Heath, Old Hill, Shell Corner, Windmill Hill, Quarry Bank and Halesowen.

"We also have much work to do.

“I’m proud to say that my first question to Parliament was to ask for a debate on town centres from the Leader of the House of Commons, Lucy Powell MP.

"I also asked for an update on Halesowen town centre’s levelling up grant.

“I was told that this is being looked at along with other levelling up grants and I will continue to press for Halesowen and keep town centre businesses updated.

"The Leader of the House also proposed a wider debate on town centre regeneration.”

The £20 million announced for Halesowen, will see Dudley Council work with Halesowen College to create a new college building in the town centre to allow for vocational training programmes, adult education and provide a hospitality centre.

As part of the original proposal, the Pool Road car park will be demolished with alternative car parking arrangements available at the Andrew Road car park and at the Great Cornbow leisure centre.

Funding may also be used to improve the town centre for cyclists along with traffic calming measures and better pedestrian access.