The Government has announced a £56 million Welcome Back Fund to help boost the look and feel of high streets and seaside towns. This is fantastic news for Totnes and South Devon, as we look forward to a busy summer once restrictions are lifted.
Torbay Council will receive £121,293 and South Hams District Council will receive £77,370.
Funding will help councils prepare for the safe return of shoppers and tourists, allowing them to improve green spaces, remove graffiti and provide more outdoor markets and pop-up food stalls. Pubs and restaurants will have greater flexibility to set up marquees and outdoor seating to allow for social distancing, and will also continue to be able to offer takeaway services.
Torbay local authority has also been selected to receive further support as part of the High Streets Task Force, where experts will recommend ways to make positive change happen on the high street.