Earlier this year, it was announced that a £90m Coastal Communities Fund would be up for grabs in a bid to revitalise British seaside resorts. Businesses based on the coast were invited to apply for a share of this funding to help regenerate and improve seaside areas, encouraging visitors and creating new job opportunities.
This multi-million-pound cash injection will help coastal communities put ambitious plans into practice and will be available over the next four years. Grants of between £50,000 and £4m are being awarded to a wide range of organisations, including councils and private sector businesses. The government hopes this cash investment will transform coastal communities so that they can thrive all year round and not just in the peak holiday season.
£8 income from every £1 invested
This cash boost is part of a wider, long-term investment to revitalise the British coast. As part of a dedicated Coastal Communities Fund, £120m has already been distributed by the government to seaside communities since 2012. The grants already awarded have been invested in a number of ways, including projects such as resurrecting railway lines to resorts, setting up sailing and diving centres, improving visitor attractions, adding information boards and signage, and creating coastal walking trails. An innovative lobster hatchery project in Padstow received £150,000 in funding, attracted 3,500 more visitors, and had created five direct and 16 indirect jobs in the area. In addition to boosting jobs, the funding has had a positive economic impact, with every £1 invested creating up to £8 in income for coastal communities.
Whether you are visiting the seaside in summer or winter, for a dip in the sea or a ride on a donkey, check the tide times before venturing out to make the most of your experience and to enjoy a safe day out.
