In March 2010 the previous Government launched its latest strategy for seaside towns – Strategy for Seaside Success: Securing the future of seaside economies. To coincide with this announcement Wirral along with 24 other local authorities in England was awarded a grant of £200,000 from the Department of Communities & Local Government (DCLG). The allocation in the form of a revenue grant is designed to support projects that will drive regeneration and economic development in the seaside towns of New Brighton, Hoylake and West Kirby.
Cabinet have agreed that Wirral’s allocation be split equally between New Brighton (£100,000) and Hoylake/West Kirby (£100,000) and that the respective Area Forum’s be given responsibility in evaluating and determining which proposals be supported. Recommendations from each Area Forum will then be presented to a future Cabinet for a decision.
The application process was launched on 20th February and the closing date for applications is 12 noon on Friday 25 February 2011. Applications that meet the criteria for funding will be assessed through a process of participatory budgeting at two “Special” Area Forums on 7.00-9.00pm, 14 March at Melrose Hall, Melrose Avenue, Hoylake, CH47 3BU for Hoylake & West Kirby and 7.00-9.00pm, 17th March at Wallasey Sea Cadets, Victoria Road, New Brighton, CH45 9LD in respect of New Brighton.
If you are a resident in either of these areas and would like to have a say on how this funding is spent, you can attend on the evening and vote on which projects receive funding in your area. If you have any questions about getting involved please call Andy Brannan on 0151 691 8391 or email [email protected]