Seaside communities are being urged to create dedicated Coastal Community Teams to drive forward economic regeneration and a long-term vision, by new Coastal Communities Minister Mark Francois today(Tuesday).
The Government is providing over £1m to set up 110 Coastal Community Teams to deal with the specific economic challenges faced by seaside towns and take forward a local strategy for success, which could help revive the likes of Ryde, Sandown, Shanklin and Ventnor.
In a letter to coastal MPs, the Minister said the creation of these new teams would make sure the economic recovery is felt across the country – helping areas deal with specific coastal challenges and achieve their potential to develop strong and vibrant local economies.
Coastal Communities Minister Mark Francois said:
“Unlocking the potential of our seaside towns is a priority for this government and securing the economic recovery in all parts of the country.
“We want communities to drive forward their vision, harness local expertise and make the most of their local heritage to create jobs, unleash business opportunities and boost the local economy.
“The creation of a coastal community team will be a catalyst for change and help secure the future of our seaside towns. I urge seaside towns to come forward and take this opportunity.”
Coastal towns and villages often have individual projects underway to boost the local economy – such as a publicly funded skills scheme, a high street revival programme or plans by the council –but these can work in isolation. The creation of a local team will ensure, for the first time in some areas, that local people, councils and businesses work together in a coordinated way.
Details of how to become a Coastal Community Team can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coastal-community-teams-bidding-prospectus. The deadline for applying to be a Coastal Community Team is 30th June.
Along with each area being awarded £10,000 to kick-start work, coastal teams will also be able to bid for a share of the new £3 million coastal revival fund to support or restore local heritage and facilities which benefit the wider community and the surrounding economy. Details of how to apply for this will be available in the summer.
