Coastal Communities In South West To Benefit From £15m Funding Boost

By Sofy Robertson

Photo by Sofy Robertson

Coastal communities across the South West have been awarded £15m from the Government to help develop and improve tourist attractions, create jobs and promote socio-economic growth.

Historic buildings, museums and the restoration of much-loved coastal heritage sites are just a few of the projects that will benefit from a major injection of more than £36 million funding for communities on England’s coast.

The investment in the South West includes over £14.8 million from the Coastal Communities Fund and over £556,000 from the Coastal Revival Fund.

The eight Communities Fund projects are forecast to collectively support 900 jobs and attract up to £18.9 million in additional investments from the public and private sectors.

This latest investment represents awards from the fifth round of the Government’s CC Fund and the third phase of the Coastal Revival Fund in 2018/19. It comes in addition to £180 million from both funds that has been invested in more than 350 projects across the UK so far.

Communities Secretary, Rt Hon James Brokenshire MP said:

“I am determined to support investment and development of our coastal communities across the South West and create an economy that works for everyone as we prepare for Brexit and beyond.

“All of the ambitious projects receiving funding today were designed and developed by local people who know what will make the biggest difference to their areas.

“The sheer range of ideas demonstrate the potential of our coastal communities and will all create good jobs, boost growth and improve people’s lives now and in the future.” (Radio Exe)

Coastal Communities Minister, Jake Berry MP said:

“This is an investment in the future of our coastal communities which builds on their rich heritage and huge potential.

“The world-class attractions and innovative businesses supported by the Coastal Community Fund and the Coastal Revival Fund will increase tourism, encourage investment and ensure people thrive up and down the Great British Coast.”

This investment builds upon the Government’s commitment to ensure that people have the opportunities to prosper no matter where they live.