Leaders behind a new initiative aimed at enhancing Herne Bay’s regeneration are calling on residents to show their support at a public meeting next week.

Former city councillor Peter Vickery-Jones is heading up the Herne Bay Coastal Community, which is a government-led scheme offering coastal towns the chance to tap into a multimillion pound pot of cash.

Mr Vickery-Jones, who is acting as the community’s interim chairman, has organised a public meeting at the King’s Hall later this month to detail the plans.

He said: “This government-led initiative is without doubt the best opportunity our town will ever have to focus resources and money where it’s most needed.

“The specific needs of Herne Bay need to be considered separately from those of our neighbours and it would be fantastic to make our town a more prosperous, safe and vibrant place.

“The Herne Bay Coastal Community can apply for and win grants and funding from new sources.”

“If ever there was a key moment for Herne Bay it would be January 27 – we have got to demonstrate that we have got initiatives that are worth much more than just passing consideration..." - Peter Vickery-Jones

The meeting, which will be held at 7pm on Wednesday, January 27, will be open to all Herne Bay residents.

The community has the chance to access part of a dedicated fund of more than £90m made available by central government.

But Mr Vickery-Jones says residents need to show their support later this month before the opportunity passes.

He added: “It’s a real opportunity for Herne Bay.

“Too often have we been the meal and not the diner.

“I really think people need to be made aware of the potential within this initiative.

“The meeting is absolutely key because if it is well supported that will give us the encouragement that we need to continue our efforts.

“It’s vital people demonstrate support for their town by coming along on the 27th.

“Let’s not give the government the opportunity to walk away from it saying ‘you couldn’t show us that you could do it.’

“Let us, as a town, show that we are worthy of it.

“If ever there was a key moment for Herne Bay it would be January 27 – we have got to demonstrate that we have got initiatives that are worth much more than just passing consideration.”

Visit www.hernebaycoastalcommunityteam.org for details