Government announces £56m for high streets and seaside resorts

The government has announced that £56m will be invested in a Welcome Back Fund to support the reopening and revitalisation of England's high streets and seaside resorts.

The new fund is intended to help councils boost tourism, improve green spaces and provide more outdoor seating areas, markets and food stall pop-ups.

Part of this funding will be allocated specifically to support coastal areas, with funding going to all coastal resorts across England to safely welcome holidaymakers in the coming months.

The funding can also be used by councils to run publicity campaigns and prepare to hold events like street markets and festivals to support local businesses and install signage and floor markings to encourage social distancing and safety.

Communities secretary Robert Jenrick said: "As we move to the next stage on the roadmap out of lockdown, we are all looking forward to being reunited with friends and family outdoors and making a safe and happy return to our favourite shops, cafés, pubs and restaurants.

"Our Welcome Back Fund gives every city, town and high street support to prepare for a great summer. This funding will help councils and businesses to welcome shoppers, diners and tourists back safely.

"As soon as the roadmap allows, we need to get behind our local businesses and enjoy all that this country has to offer and that we've been missing so much."

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