Significant government funding for the seafront redevelopment in Folkestone is set to be announced "very shortly", according to the town's MP.

Damian Collins today revealed the huge transformation of the seafront and harbour area could receive government backing soon.

It comes after the government announced today that 36 seaside towns across England would be allocated a share of £36 million from the Coastal Communities Fund (CCF).

The CCF money goes towards projects “to boost growth in coastal areas” around the country including two in Kent - Gravesend’s borough market and a £247,000 pledge for Margate.

Folkestone was not included in the round of applications for this money.

But MP Damian Collins told the Folkestone & Hythe Express that the town is in the running for a financial boost from another government pot.

Coastal communities minister Penny Mordaunt visited the town last October to see how Folkestone’s seafront redevelopment scheme was going ahead.

Mr Collins added: “Penny’s visit was linked to the application I am supporting for the Folkestone seafront regeneration scheme to receive financial support from the local growth fund.

"We should here the result from the government very shortly." MP Damian Collins

“This is the major government fund that supports infrastructure and economic development. We have been working with the South East Local Enterprise Partnership to support this application and we should hear the result from the government very shortly.

“Government funding to support the Folkestone seafront plan would give a major impetus to the further regeneration of the town.

“The CCF is backed by the lottery. In general we have had some good support from the lottery funds. The Heritage Lottery has awarded over £6 million to projects in the constituency over the last five years.”