MP Hugo Swire has encouraged projects in his East Devon constituency to apply for cash.

SIDMOUTH could be among coastal communities across the UK to benefit from a new multimillion-pound fund unveiled by Chancellor George Osborne last week.

MP Hugo Swire has encouraged projects in his East Devon constituency to apply for cash.

The Coastal Communities Fund, worth around �23.7million in its first year, is a Government initiative aimed at supporting the economic development of seaside communities.

Money will be used to support a wide range of projects - including those that support charities, the environment and education, or developing renewable energy, improving skills or environmental safeguarding or improvement.

“This has the potential to have a real and lasting impact on our local economy,” said Mr Swire.

“It’s great news for East Devon and I encourage local projects to apply.”

The scheme will be paid for with half of the revenue raised by the Crown Estate’s marine activities and will open in April 2012.

Chancellor Osborne said: “Coastal communities play a vital role in the well-being of the whole country. I’m glad we can provide support through this new fund and ensure that they continue to benefit the whole of the UK.”

The grant is set to be administered by the Big Lottery’s Big Fund.