The UK’s ailing seaside towns are to receive a significant injection of cash in order to create jobs and revive their fortunes, communities minister Mark Francois announced on Saturday.
The Government’s Coastal Communities Fund will receive an additional £800,000 to be divided between eight coastal communities, including the country’s only Grade 1 listed pier.
‘We’re determined to unlock the enormous potential of our Great British Coast,’ the minister said.
‘Over the past three years we’ve already funded more than 200 projects along the shorefront – from piers and promenades to shop-fronts and sailing centres – to attract tourists, boost jobs and create vibrant local economies.
‘Now this extra £800,000 will help put another eight coastal communities back on the map and kick-start their own exciting regeneration plans.’
Clevedon Pier Heritage Trust Ltd, Somerset (pictured) will receive an extra £75,000 for renovation works to reinstate the UK’s only Grade 1 listed pier.
At the same time, £50,000 is earmarked for Gravesend Borough Charter Market Hall in Kent, one of the oldest charter markets in England.
Other projects include the restoration of an historic passenger ship, and the repair of a much-used rambler’s coastal path following recent damage.
