LYDNEY Harbour is set to receive a £10,000 cash injection to improve the area and boost the local economy.

A dedicated Lydney coastal community team secured the government funding, and among the plans is refurbishment of the swing bridge.

Communities Secretary, Greg Clark said: “The Lydney team’s work to secure the funding is proof that coastal communities are ready for economic lift off.

“Our great British coast has enormous economic potential, and we are determined to see it thrive all year round – not just in the summer months.

“We had a huge number of economic plans submitted, which demonstrates the wave of optimism, and a wealth of creative and practical ideas. 

“I now want to see all the hard work and enthusiasm grow to fruition by helping to deliver ideas through the coastal community teams.”

Cllr Brian Pearman, a Lydney town councillor, said: “This is the first step towards achieving the vision for the harbour set out in the Lydney Neighbourhood Development Plan.

“The coastal community team concept is exciting and will enable the community and stakeholder organisations to come together to achieve a sustainable and viable future for the harbour to the benefit of the town, the district and visitors from further afield.

“Investment will be required, but the team approach will ensure robust bids based on sound business plans will be in place to influence potential investors.

“We cannot change the past, but we can influence what the future looks like.”

Leader of the Forest Council, Cllr Patrick Molyneux (Con, Hewelsfield and Woolaston) added: “This is hugely exciting news for Lydney and the local area.

“The Lydney coastal community team’s vision is to increase the harbour’s fantastic potential as a recreation and tourism destination, which will benefit local people, visitors and boat users.

“These initial plans are the crucial first stage to achieving this aim.”