About

The Coastal Communities Fund (CCF) aims to support the economic development of coastal communities by promoting sustainable economic growth and jobs, so that people are better able to respond to the changing economic needs and opportunities of their area.

The aim of Essex Path to Prosperity is to promote the Essex coast and the England coastal path as a high quality visitor destination with a diverse tourism offer thus achieving economic growth and the regeneration of Essex coastal communities through a wide range of activities including:

•   Targeted businesses support
•   Increased employment opportunities through upskilling and development of new markets
•   Changing perceptions about the county
•   Creating a sense of place that visitors wish to return to and local people can take pride in

This cross-cutting and multi benefit project will comprise many activities including:

•   Promote the Coast and Coast Path / walking the coast in Essex to a range of audiences across digital and physical platforms
•   Develop interactive digital tool to promote thematic trails, highlight local businesses and sustainable travel options and enabling visitors to create itineraries
•   Target new and existing audiences to undertake off peak railway journeys to the coast encouraging use and improving sustainability of branch lines.
•   Produce and display information and leaflets, including location maps at bus stops, railway stations, tourism related businesses and parish notice boards
•   Improve bus and public rights of way signage and infrastructure.
•   Support small/seasonal businesses along the Essex coast, with training for 35 staff in customer service and team leading skills.
•   Introduce creative activities, including art and photography courses for community and visitors, to stimulate engagement in life-long learning attracting interest in and potentially repeat visits to the coast from new audiences.

Partners involved