TOWNS across the south west are set to benefit £1million to kickstart regenerations projects and give local areas a boost during the coronavirus pandemic.

Communities secretary confirmed on Friday the funding, which ranged from £500,000 to £1million per town, will be used to support projects that will make a difference to the area immediately with the introduction of new green spaces or the creation of pop-up businesses spaces to support local retailers.

This investment will give areas in the South West the opportunity to drive economic growth and improve prospects for their communities, which will be vital as the country to respond to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

These funds will form part of the overall £3.6billion towns fund money allocated - with this initial pot shared out now to get some projects off the ground and give local areas the boost they need.

Mr Jenrick said: “This government is investing in towns across the country, making sure that places that have been undervalued and underappreciated for too long get the support they need.

“It’s welcome news that £6.5m will be shared amongst nine projects in the south west. This includes sustainable transport schemes and the development of town centres and parks for the benefit of the community.”