Multi-million pound funding to transform the UK’s coastal communities through investment in jobs, skills and local businesses opened for bids yesterday. Anne-Marie Trevelyan, Member of Parliament for Berwick-upon-Tweed is calling upon interested groups to get in contact with her regarding ideas and proposals.
500 new businesses supporting 5,500+ plus jobs have been created thanks to the government’s Coastal Communities Fund.
Since 2012, the government’s CCF has awarded grants to 295 projects across the UK, totalling over £174 million. Analysis shows this has been money well spent, with every £1 invested having the potential to create an up to £8 boost to our coastal economies. Successful projects have included our very own Amble. Northumberland county council was awarded a £1.8 million CCF grant in 2014 to improve the economy of Amble through infrastructure works to transform the town into a visitor destination promoting seafood, attracting new visitors and creating jobs. The project has provided two new restaurants, improved facilities incorporating a Harbour Village with retail space, and enhanced access along the shore.
At least £40 million is available in this funding round which covers the period 2019-20 to 2020-21. To date the CCF in England has provided 131 projects with £132 million of funding. Projects report they expect this funding to support 15,000 jobs and unlock £190 million in additional investment.
As in previous bidding rounds, the aims of the Fund are to support economic development of coastal communities by awarding grants to deliver sustainable growth and jobs. Full details of eligibility and how to apply for a grant for Round 5 are now available on the following web site: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coastal-communities-fund-round-5.
Anne-Marie said “I am delighted that the successful Coastal Communities Fund has reopened for the fifth round of funding. Coastal Communities up and down the country have been boosted by this funding which has supported inward investment, sustainable growth, new jobs and economic opportunities for local businesses and residents. By 2020, this Government will have invested nearly a quarter of a billion pounds in our seaside areas, providing thousands of jobs, training places and opportunities along the Great British Coast.”
“Our very own Amble has benefited from a £1.8 million grant which has helped to boost tourism, investment and the local economy. I am calling on people to get in touch with me to discuss ideas and possible projects so that our community can benefit once again from this important funding”.