One of the most deprived areas in Brent is set to benefit from almost £900,000 of funding to help boost its town centre.

Brent Council’s cabinet agreed to plans to support the Harlesden High Streets Heritage Action Zone, which seeks to improve shop fronts and community spaces in the area.

It will contribute £454,000 to the scheme, with a further £437,600 coming from Historic England.

According to a council report, this will cover façade improvements along a stretch of Harlesden high street, as well as work on the former HSBC Bank building recently purchased by The Refugee Support Network.

There will also be a series of projects to support the town’s roads, including pavement improvements, new crossings, and cycle lane upgrades.

Cllr Shama Tatler, who is responsible for regeneration, property, and planning at Brent Council, said it was important that Harlesden is “not forgotten” when it comes to regular improvement works.

She said the area “desperately needs [the council’s] support” and that “more investment” is always welcome.

And Cllr Mili Patel, who represents Harlesden ward, explained it will be particularly useful given the impact Covid-19 has had on the community, which was among the worst affected in the country.

She said businesses that have been forced to make tough decisions will appreciate this extra funding.

The projects are expected to be completed by September 2022, though the council and Historic England noted the possible impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on timescales.