Member Article

Blackpool selected by government to boost local economy

Blackpool is one of 12 coastal towns selected by the government to boost its local economy.

The town has been selected to pioneer a dedicated coastal team to kick start the local economy and create jobs.

The Blackpool Coastal Communities Team will be made up of public, private and community groups.

It will also support delivery of the Coastal Communities Funded “LightPool” scheme which will deliver a major impact on the visitor economy offer and support the retail sector.

Each team is awarded £10k to begin work and then they will be able to bid for a share of £3m coastal revival fund which has been set up to support local heritage facilities.

Coastal communities Minister Penny Mordaunt said: “Supporting seaside towns to unlock their enormous potential, boost local economies and contribute to the wider area is an important part of the government’s long-term economic plan.

“These coastal teams will be crucial in driving forward ideas, harnessing local expertise and tapping into new business opportunities which will benefit the entire community.

“This includes taking advantage of our new heritage revival fund to boost neglected coastal assets and attract private investment.

“I urge other seaside towns to come forward and create one of these new innovative, forward-thinking teams to ensure they make the most of their potential.”

Nicola Radford from the Coastal Communities Alliance said: “This is excellent news and the Alliance is delighted to play a key role in leading the Coastal Community Teams programme.

“This programme recognises the important role local communities play in attracting visitors and investment to coastal areas.

“I look forward to seeing the innovative ideas and successful initiatives that will arise from the creation of these teams.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sophia Taha .