New board aims to create bright future for Hunstanton

Plans to set up a new town board, which officials hope could help to bring future investment to Hunstanton, have been outlined.

Council chiefs hope the body will bring together businesses, community groups and residents as well as political leaders in building a bright future for the resort.

And borough leaders say they will pump tens of thousands of pounds more into new projects in the town.

Talks have been taking place for some time between town and borough council leaders about ways in which the two bodies can work together.

The board idea follows the establishment of a similar institution for Lynn, which has led efforts to secure a £25 million Government funding package.

West Norfolk Council leader Stuart Dark said: “The way central government and other funding is now being allocated means that it is vital to have a clear town ‘vision’ and investment plan in place, which sets out plans, aspirations and component projects, supported by evidence and genuine community engagement.

“The stronger these ‘building blocks’ are the easier it is to do the right things and to tap into funding as it becomes available.

“The model in King's Lynn under the banner of ‘Vision King's Lynn’ is working really well and it would be great to see a similar scheme tailored for Hunstanton.

“Early conversations with relevant partners and stakeholders, including the town council have been extremely encouraging.

“We see the new Hunstanton board as a helpful way of drawing us even closer to other stakeholders and residents to drive forward together.”

It is envisaged that the body would involve the old Coastal Communities Team, a new Hunstanton Town Events Committee, as well as town, borough and county council figures, businesses, community organisations and members of the public.

And the borough council says it will invest a further £50,000 into town projects, on top of existing commitments, following a £250,000 repair package for the roof of the Princess Theatre which was announced last October.

Town mayor Adrian Winnington said: “I welcome this initiative focusing on Hunstanton.

“The town council looks forward to working co-operatively with the borough council and other groups and individuals in sourcing funding for projects which will enable Hunstanton to develop and prosper, for the benefit of all.”

And the town's county councillor, Andrew Jamieson, said: “We have a unique opportunity for the county and borough council to work together to support growth in the town, drive forward new business and leisure opportunities and address the challenges identified by local people that the town faces in the coming years as we recover from the pandemic.”