Cash to regenerate seaside town

English Partnerships says the cash will benefit Morecambe as a whole

A plan to make a Lancashire town more appealing to families and businesses has won cash from the regeneration agency English Partnerships.

The money will be used to transform the West End area of Morecambe and provide a blueprint for future development.

The Win Back the West End project plans to reduce the amount of rented accommodation and increase owner occupation in the town.

Work is due to start next week and will take about nine months to complete.

The work is part of a so-called 'master plan' to improve the area, put together following a consultation with local residents.

Leader of Lancaster City Council, Councillor Ian Barker, said: "The council is pleased that one of its top priorities, the implementation of the Morecambe Action Plan, is being taken forward by such a strong partnership.

'Much-needed change'

"The involvement of English Partnerships will, I am convinced, bring much needed change to the West End of Morecambe."

English Partnerships says the funding will benefit the whole town.

Regional Director, Bill Skilki, said: "The commitment to produce a quality master plan and then see through its implementation will see the West End change for the better."

The Morecambe Bay Action Plan was agreed just over 12 months ago, after public consultation.