PLANS to turn New Brighton's Marine Lake into 'the centrepiece for performances and artistic events' have been boosted by almost £40,000 in Government funding.

A grant of £38,594 from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government will be used to pay for a floating 'event platform' to create 'Animate Marine Lake New Brighton'.

The platform would be used for a range of performances and displays taking place at the seaside town, which has benefited from major regeneration over the last decade.

The funding is from the Government's 'Coastal Revival Fund' and the platform is intended to increase the resort's attraction to tourists by creating a unique space for events, activities and exhibitions.

New Brighton is one of 45 areas across the country receiving a share of funding.

The aim is also to make greater use of an underused asset – the Victorian-built lake is a focal point of the town – and the project is being led by the New Brighton Coastal Community Team (NBCCT), which includes many local business, organisations and voluntary groups.

When constructed the small platform, likely to measure 100 metres square, will be able to be positioned in the centre of the Lake to allow maximum visual impact across the expanse of water, and visible from all sides.

It is also intended to allow for regular community-led arts based initiatives which are now synonymous with New Brighton, such as The Black Pearl driftwood pirate ship and various pop up arts projects.

Wallasey constituency manager and Wirral Council's representative on NBCCT, Caroline Laing, said: "The vision for New Brighton is to build on its strengths and become a year round destination.

"NBCCT's drive and determination has helped pave the way for Wirral Council to demonstrate the value of the resort as the premier destination for large scale events, as shown through the Giant Spectacular and River of Light Celebrations in 2018.

"We want to see the town attracting even more day trippers and people staying overnight, as well as increasing employment, while always making sure we support and respond to the needs of the local community."

Coastal Communities Minister, Jake Berry MP said: "This is an investment in the future of our coastal communities which builds on their rich heritage and huge potential.

"The world-class attractions and innovative businesses supported by the Coastal Communities Fund and the Coastal Revival Fund will increase tourism, encourage investment and ensure people thrive up and down the Great British Coast."

The funding announcement comes as Wirral kicks off its Borough of Culture Year.

A range of events are planned throughout the year showcasing the borough’s assets and celebrating arts and culture.

For more details on the events, see www.imaginewirral.com/wirral-2019