Chief Secretary to the Treasury Danny Alexander and Communities Secretary Eric Pickles have jointly announced a multi-million pound package to create jobs and apprenticeships in coastal towns across the country, including right here on the Isle of Wight.
Over fifty projects across the UK were today (Friday) awarded a share of £27.7 million of funding, supporting over 4000 jobs and creating over 1000 new apprenticeships and training places.
They include Ventnor Town Council, who have been awarded some £95,000 to refurbish a Coastal Enterprise Centre in Ventnor to provide space for business start-ups and self employed workers looking to expand their activities, creating 1 direct and 35 indirect jobs.
The news comes as the Isle of Wight Council Overview and Scrutiny Committee last night recommended that the building is leased to Ventnor Town Council but not the adjoining land until it’s valued.
Town Clerk David Bartlett said:
“The grant provides Ventnor with a remarkable opportunity to establish an Enterprise Centre for business start-ups, stimulate its local economy and extend the life of one its iconic buildings.”
Bob Ventress, Ventnor Business Association Chair added:
“Ventnor Business Association very much welcomes this contribution to the town’s economic life and looks forward to continuing to work with the Town Council to ensure the project’s success.”
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In England, £17 million is today allocated to economic development projects in areas affected by the recent severe flooding, so from Great Yarmouth to Weymouth and Devon to North Tyneside, communities can invest and rebuild their local areas after the recent extreme weather.
The Ministers also announced that bidding for the next round of the Coastal Communities Fund was now open and that bids on coastal flood protection and repair would be prioritised. The fund will support £64 million of projects across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland over the next three years.
