Resort to get �4m 'cultural cash'

Blackpool's need for regeneration attracted the funding

Blackpool has been promised �4m from the government to fund projects to attract more visitors to the resort.

The grant is part of a funding programme which the government hopes will bring a renaissance in the fortunes of English seaside towns.

The cash will be spent on cultural and heritage projects, such as improving theatres and public gardens.

Blackpool was chosen because of its high levels of social and economic deprivation, the government said.

Culture Secretary Andy Burnham said the aim of the project was to reinvigorate England's coastal resorts.

"Our seaside resorts are much loved and an integral part of English culture. But some of them are looking a bit faded and no longer attract as many visitors as they did," he said.

"Many hold hidden treasures and this money provides a much needed boost to the resorts."

'Original flair'

So-called "Sea Change" projects will act as catalysts for further economic regeneration in the towns receiving the cash, the government said.

In February, it was announced that Blackpool would get �300m of government money for regeneration as a consolation for missing out on the super-casino.

The new cash will be earmarked for projects to improve what has been called the resort's "cultural infrastructure".

It can be used to revamp historic public spaces such as promenades and gardens, or enhance buildings such as theatres, galleries, arts centres and concert halls.

Blackpool Council can put forward projects to the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE) but must match funding costs to qualify for a grant for a specific project.

CABE chairman, Sir John Sorrell, said: "We want to see exciting and innovative projects which build on the strong identity these towns enjoy and give them the best opportunity to recapture their original flair."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version