Clacton and Jaywick Sands are set to receive a major boost with almost £20m approved for regeneration projects. 

The grant, awarded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, will fund key projects, including £3m to redevelop Clacton Leisure Centre and £5m to repurpose a disused town centre building for cultural and community use. 

However, of more significance – albeit marginal – to operators in Clacton, some smaller projects will likely receive funds quicker for an immediate start – notably £500,000 for a seafront art and community micro venue on Clacton seafront. 

Whether this will have any impact on trading is unlikely, and there will be many voices on the promenade that believe more policing, more affordable parking and more toilets may be more beneficial to their business and their visitors.

There is however a more targeted smaller fund of £500,000 to improve tired shopfronts in Jaywick and Clacton – definitely a better focus for regeneration, albeit far too little in terms of money. 

But the councillors are happy, and why not – it’s £20m extra in the budget. “We are excited by this once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform Clacton and Jaywick Sands,” said Ivan Henderson, deputy leader of Tendring Council. “Our projects aim to harness culture and tourism on the Essex Sunshine Coast to regenerate the town and provide more opportunities for our residents.”

Alex Norris, local growth minister, described the investment as “a real vote of confidence for the community,” adding, “I look forward to seeing the funding put to use, boosting tourism, encouraging local growth, and supporting health and wellbeing initiatives, including the redevelopment of Clacton Leisure Centre.”

A second wave of projects, including the transformation of a Napoleonic Martello Tower, will follow in early 2025.