A LONG-AWAITED project to regenerate Port Royal will be boosted by a �30,000 pledge by East Devon District Council (EDDC).

Sidmouth will benefit from the cash along with projects in Axminster and Honiton.

EDDC Cabinet members last Wednesday ruled the sum, for “town centre renewal and resilience strategies”, would be included in the authority’s budget for 2012/13.

Councillors heard the funding was part of a �90,000 initiative over three years.

The funding would allow preparation work to be done for when the economy picks up - so potential work can begin.

Some members wanted to see the matter postponed for a year so ongoing regeneration schemes in Exmouth and Seaton could progress more.

However, the majority wanted the cash to be committed.

“This is an important marker we are putting down to show we are not neglecting those towns. It’s time we looked forward. This is a starting place top help them. I’m concerned about the resources we have to do it,” said Councillor Graham Godbeer.