Plans worth over £12million have been approved to regenerate a once-thriving UK seaside town. The money will be spent on six projects, improving public spaces, repairing buildings, and supporting local businesses.

Clacton and Jaywick Sands, located in the east of England, were once popular holiday destinations for tourists. However, they have since turned into rundown areas, with some describing them as a "refuge for troubled Londoners". Tendring District Council’s (TDC) Cabinet has now backed a £12.25m project to rejuvenate the area and return it to its former glory. The Community Regeneration Partnership will be completed alongside the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

The council was previously given £19.8m for 15 projects to regenerate the town. They have now approved six more projects, which will be completed in 2025 and 2026.

These include a £2m repurposing of the underused Napoleonic-era Martello Tower fort in Clacton. The council has approved to turn it into an events and culture venue.

A further £2m will be spent on improving public spaces in Jaywick Sands. Meanwhile, £3m will be used to deliver a new All Wheels cycling facility at Clacton Leisure Centre and complete urgent repairs to the building.

The council will also use £100,000 to develop a new spatial strategy for Clacton. This is hoped to drive regeneration by supporting culture.

Finally, £5m will be spent on purchasing a building in Clacton town centre before repurposing it for community and cultural use. Solar panels, worth £150,000, will also be installed at Jaywick Sands’ Sunspot business centre to cut running costs and provide further support to local enterprises.

Councillor Ivan Henderson, Deputy Leader of TDC and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “We are thrilled to push ahead with these six outstanding projects as part of our partnership with the Government. These initiatives are a testament to our commitment to delivering bold and ambitious plans that will significantly improve Clacton and Jaywick Sands.

“These schemes align perfectly with Our Vision to raise aspirations, foster economic growth, champion our environment, and promote our heritage, attracting visitors and encouraging them to stay longer. Collectively, they will provide us with real opportunity to transform our area and create a brighter future for Clacton and Jaywick Sands.”