Government splashes out in seaside resorts

Details of the first wave of investment in English seaside towns has emerged.

Projects to be funded in Blackpool, Dover and Torbay will costs £10 million as part of a government-backed £45 million Sea Change programme.

Blackpool will receive £4 million torwards a 20,000-capacity outdoor performance arena on the seafront.

A cable car will be built in Dover with the aid of £3.8 million in funding, linking the Western Docks with the town's cliff-top castle.

Two projects at Torbay's English Riviera Geopark will receive £2.2 million.

Tourism minister Margaret Hodge said: "The Sea Change scheme is all about kick-starting regeneration through cultural investment in our seaside communities, helping preserve their heritage and encouraging new and exciting projects.

"These three large grants are the first in this programme and I hope they will inspire other coastal resorts to dream up similar innovative and creative plans."

Communities secretary Hazel Blears said: "Like others, these three towns have been working hard to secure their economic futures, in improving their local industries, including tourism. I am sure this funding will will be welcome support for their continuing efforts." By Phil Davies Travel Mole website.

Published: 4.8.2008