New coastal teams to create jobs, bring business and help local economies thrive

We would like to do more work on “coastal” they’re  fascinating. It also often reminds me of my good old friend Patrick who revelled in this aspect of regeneration. We keep our hand in with Big Local in Mablethorpe. I just know that where rural and coastal collide there are some of the most challenging regeneration issues you could imagine.

This article tells us the government is providing over £1 million 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. Coastal Communities Minister Mark Francois 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.

The concept follows on from the town team model used to revitalise town centres. 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.