LYDNEY will benefit after £2.1 million from the Government’s Coastal Communities Fund was awarded to a project set to create 270 jobs, improve transport connections to the town and increase visitor numbers. 

Destination Lydney Harbour will enhance routes into the town by car, train, bike and boat to develop the area as a tourist destination.

This latest investment in Gloucestershire is part of an additional £10.4 million awarded to projects around the Great British Coast from the Government’s Coastal Communities Fund. It builds on the Government’s support for 25 projects across Gloucestershire from more than £106 million investment from the Local Growth Fund. 

Minister for the Northern Powerhouse and Local Growth, Rt Hon Jake Berry MP said: “Gloucestershire has benefitted from more than £100 million from the Local Growth Fund and just last month Cinderford was named among the places which will benefit from our £1 billion Future High Streets Fund.

“Now we’re backing the people of Lydney with £2.1 million to create local jobs, increase tourism and boost the local economy.

“This further investment will create 270 local jobs and help ensure the environment is protected for future generations.

“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.”

FULL REACTION AND WHERE NEXT FOR LYDNEY? SEE THE FORESTER ON WEDNESDAY.