Betteshanger visitor centre and Gravesend market receive government cash from Coastal Communities Fund

A new visitor centre and a town market are to receive government cash.

The Bettheshanger County Park visitor centre, near Deal, is due to receive £175,000 from the Coastal Communities Fund, while the revitalisation of Gravesend’s market hall will get an extra £50,000.

Both have already received money from the scheme, which aims to create jobs, attract investment and boost the local economy.

An artist's impression of how the old colliery could look at Betteshanger
An artist's impression of how the old colliery could look at Betteshanger

Betteshanger had already been given the fund’s largest grant of £2.5 million, while Gravesend market, which was first granted a charter in 1268, had been given £1.8 million.

The funding was part of an extra £800,000 released by the Government on Saturday for eight projects across the country.

Launched in 2012, the Coastal Communities Fund has invested over £120 million on 222 projects.

Communities Minister Mark Francois said: “We’re determined to unlock the enormous potential of our great British coast.

The Borough Market in Gravesend
The Borough Market in Gravesend

“Over the past three years we’ve already funded more than 200 projects along the shorefront – from piers and promenades to shop-fronts and sailing centres – to attract tourists, boost jobs and create vibrant local economies.

“Now this extra £800,000 will help put another eight coastal communities back on the map and kick-start their own exciting regeneration plans.”

The visitor centre is part of Betteshangar Sustainable Parks, a 300-acre site on the former Betteshanger Colliery.

Construction of the building, encompassing a green energy centre and the Kent Mining Museum, is due for completion in 2017.

Gravesend’s market hall is closed while a refurbishment project is being carrier out and is due to reopen in November.

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