Government minister Lord Ahmad saw promising signs for regeneration as he toured Margate.

The communities minister announced a £247,000 grant to develop tourism along Thanet’s coast and create 15 jobs.

The money has come from the Government’s Coastal Communities Fund which helps coastal towns and cities create sustainable economic growth and jobs.

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Lord Ahmad said: “This fund is exclusively for regenerating our coastal communities up and down the country.

“Just walking from the station it is quite phenomenal to see the number of small businesses that we have the potential to help with regeneration.”

The government has put £36m into the scheme, which started in 2012, and this is the second time Thanet has benefited after the Dreamland Project was awarded £1.89m in October last year.

He added: “This money is not for individual projects but for all aspects of tourism here, such as the Turner Contemporary, so the town can be appreciated all year round.

Video: Lord Ahmad visits Margate - Jem Collins reports

“I think there is more to be done with travel - improving the transport links with greater frequency and speed.

“But it is also great to see local communities and the authority coming together to put bids in.

"This is part of the government's wider economic development plan and I think it is also important to note how European funding has helped the area.

“We now have to come together and discuss how this money is best spent.”

Council leader Iris Johnston said: “This is a great addition to the regeneration work we are doing already.

“This money makes the difference in bringing back character and attracting tourism.

“It will also help us with salaries for full-time employees and recognising the importance of the coast and heritage.

“The money will help us say to people to come down and enjoy our amazing place.

“I am very grateful to Lord Ahmad for coming down today and it is nice for him to see what is happening here.”