Home   Kent   News   Article

Seaside communities in Kent to get £10,000 from Coastal Community Fund

Coastal communities in Kent are set to receive £10,000 from the government to help revive their towns it has been announced today.

Along with each area being awarded the money to kick-start work, 116 Coastal Community Teams will be created from local business, councils and residents who will help coordinate regeneration projects in their area.

The communities in Kent set to benefit are; Broadstairs, Chatham, Deal and Sandwich, Dover, Dymchurch, Folkestone, Gravesend, Herne Bay, Isle of Sheppey, Margate, Ramsgate, and Whitstable.

Deal seafront from the Pier. Picture: Tony Flashman.
Deal seafront from the Pier. Picture: Tony Flashman.

The money is part of the Coastal Communities Fund which was announced in the budget last week.

Mark Francois, Coastal Communities Minister, said: "This one nation government is determined to devolve powers and funding so that no corner of the country is left behind.

"This includes our historic coastal towns and cities that have in some cases fallen into decline in the past but can now ensure that the economic recovery is coming back to them too."

The south quay at Whitstable harbour. Picture: Chris Davey
The south quay at Whitstable harbour. Picture: Chris Davey

"By bringing together local businesses, local leaders and volunteers, Coastal Community Teams can help tap into their local heritage and make the most of our stunning seaside assets to make a success of the tourist trade.

"The teams can also help ensure local people have the skills and opportunities so that they benefit from the new jobs and investment too."

Historic England Chief Executive Duncan Wilson said: "Heritage is an integral part of the English seaside; piers, bandstands, theatres and promenades are the backdrop to many happy summer holidays, but these kind of historic buildings often need money to help with repairs.

Dr Bruce Hottum had been diving near Dover
Dr Bruce Hottum had been diving near Dover

"Coastal Community Teams have fantastic ideas on revitalising and reusing their most precious buildings and this Coastal Revival Fund offers an excellent opportunity to get those projects up and running."

Heritage Lottery Fund Chairman Sir Peter Luff said: "Our coast has a distinctive heritage that, with the right investment, can drive regeneration, economic growth and job creation.

"The Coastal Revival Fund will help to unlock that potential and enable communities to take the first steps towards securing wider investment. The Heritage Lottery Fund is one source of that investment and we look forward to working with the Department for Communities and Local Government and local partners to achieve this vision."

The community teams will also be able to bid for up to a £50,000 share of a new £3m Coastal Revival Fund to support or restore local heritage and facilities.

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More