Funding to boost Burnham’s future is on the way as cash for a team to tackle jobs growth and prosperity was announced.

The town has been successful in securing a £10,000 grant to set up a Coastal Communities Team.

The grant, from the Coastal Communities Fund is part of a plan to bring prosperity back to beach towns and cities in the UK.

The news has been greeted with delight in the town, with moves already underway to best use the cash.

Burnham Town Centre manager Beverley Milner-Simonds, who submitted the bid for funds, said: “The task over the next five months is to develop a plan that identifies the improvements that will make a difference to the economic viability of the town centre.

“The delivery of this plan will undoubtedly mean bids to central government funds like the Coastal Community Fund, the Coastal Revival Fund and possibly the Power to Change programme.”

“A lot of money has been spent in recent years on plans and surveys, I hope that this process sees a thorough review of that hard work; gathers up-to-date views and produces a final plan that acts as a springboard for future investment.”

The fund was launched back in 2012 and Burnham was one of 41 coastal communities in the South-West selected to receive the fund.

Coastal Communities minister Mark Francois said that it was up to the teams to decide where the investment goes as local people know best what is needed to grow their local economy.

Beverley said it was early doors for any ideas yet but the focus would be on economic viability. 


The team has until January 2016 to work on an economic plan and long-term vision for the area.
Cllr Anne Fraser, Sedgemoor’s economic strategy portfolio holder added: “Sedgemoor District Council are delighted that Burnham-on-Sea has been successful in receiving funding to support seaside regeneration. 


“Our economic development team has worked alongside Burnham and Highbridge Town Council to place the bid and we are pleased this hard work has been recognised. 


“We look forward to working with the town council and project team to maximise the funding for local residents and visitors.”


As well as the £10,000 to kick-start the work, the 116 coastal community teams will also be able to bid for a £50,000 share of a new £3 million Coastal Revival Fund, to support or restore local heritage and facilities. 


Burnham MP James Heappey said: “The initiative will be a shot in the arm for coastal towns across the country.”


“I look forward to working with local residents, businesses and community groups to access further funding for the town.”