Local South Thanet MP, Craig Mackinlay, has today praised the recent visit by the Coastal Communities Minister, Mark Francois, which has been described by local groups as a ‘step-change' for the area.
Last week, at the invitation of Craig Mackinlay, the Minister spent the day in Thanet; visiting Ramsgate and Broadstairs, before moving on to Margate in the afternoon.
During the visit the Minister announced the application period for the second round of the Coastal Communities Fund will open later this Summer. Up to £90m is available over the next four years, and the Minister encouraged coastal communities in Thanet to bid for a share of the money.
In Ramsgate, the Minister was hosted by the Ramsgate Regeneration Alliance at the Royal Temple Yacht Club. The Alliance was established by Craig Mackinlay to bring together the many vibrant groups that make up Ramsgate's civic society. The Minister and the Alliance discussed how Ramsgate may benefit from Coastal Communities Funds.
The Minister went on to visit the Viking Coastal Trail gap near Sam’s Bar in Dumpton before touring Broadstairs alongside town Mayor, Cllr Ros Binks.
Last week, the Ramsgate Regeneration Alliance published their first report on how to regenerate Ramsgate Town-Centre. The document outlined three 'shelf-ready' plans which local groups intend to seek funding for this summer - A new pedestrianised Harbour Street, A new Royal Harbour Square at Pier Yard and a joined-up Viking Coastal Trail.
Craig Mackinlay, said "It was a hugely important day. The Minister has £90 million to hand out to projects in seaside towns, so showing him our proposals was a big step forward.
I am extremely grateful to the Minister for taking the time to visit the area and for listening to our local plans. I hope that he can now see the potential a Regenerated Ramsgate and a Boosted Broadstairs have, and will look favourably to our bids for funding in the summer."
Speaking after the event, the Mayor of Broadstairs Ros Binks said, "It was a pleasure to welcome the Minister to Broadstairs. It was a great opportunity to show off recent improvements in Viking Bay and to discuss some of our other projects for the town."