Dovercourt set for £737,000 investment in high street

The seaside town is one of 10 struggling high streets selected for the Government's High Street Accelerators programme.

Supported by £7million in national funding, the initiative seeks to build partnerships that empower residents and community groups to drive long-term town centre regeneration.

Officials from The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) visited Dovercourt to see the progress made and learn about its plans.

Several projects have already been initiated to enhance Dovercourt’s image and sustainability.

These include the installation of new CCTV cameras in the high street to reduce vandalism and anti-social behaviour, and grants of up to £10,000 for businesses to revamp their shopfronts.

Dovercourt high street is set to benefit from the funding (Image: Google Maps) A new website is being developed to act as a complete directory of businesses and visitor attractions.

The Harwich Festival is holding a competition for artists to create striking banners that will bring colour and energy to the town centre.

Paul Milsom, chairman of the Harwich and Dovercourt Tourism Group, said: "We relish this opportunity to give Dovercourt a little bit of tender loving care.

"It is a wonderful community and an area which is steeped in history.

"We would love to restore it to its previous glory and are grateful for the funds to kick start this project."

Ivan Henderson, deputy leader of the council and portfolio holder for economic growth, regeneration and tourism, added: "This is a hugely important time for the future of Dovercourt and Harwich.

"With the boost of funding from the High Street Accelerator scheme we have been able to instigate a number of projects that will benefit the town centre in many ways, for residents, business owners and visitors."

The initiative also aims to enhance transport links and add green spaces to retail areas and access routes.