A number of projects are set to transform areas along the English coast courtesy of new government funding.

Over £10 million has been awarded to five projects in Cumbria, Dorset, Gloucestershire, Kent and Suffolk to create jobs, boost tourism, improve transport and protect much-loved coastal heritage sites.

The investment was awarded through the Coastal Communities Fund which helps to develop and improve local attractions, create jobs and promote socio-economic growth.

This new group of projects is expected to support nearly 1,000 jobs and attract up to £7.9 million in additional investment from public and private sector sources.

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Minister for the Northern Powerhouse and Local Growth, the Rt Hon Jake Berry MP, said: "Ensuring our coastal towns have the support they need to thrive is at the heart of this Government's plan to level up every part of the UK.

"Building on our £228 million investment into coastal communities, the projects receiving funding today were designed by local people who know best what will bring the biggest benefit to their community.

"Their fantastic ideas demonstrate the raw potential of our coastal towns and will help create good jobs, boost economic growth and improve people's lives as we leave the EU on 31 October."

Since its introduction, the Coastal Communities Fund has supported 184 "at risk" coastal heritage assets such as seafront piers, promenades, lighthouses, lidos and marinas.

(CM/MH)