WORK on Minehead's new Economic Plan is underway with the appointment of expert Keith Thomas from PER Consulting who will lead the project.

The resort won £10,000 from the Government’s Coastal Communities fund to help boost Minehead’s economy now West Somerset District Council want to investigate projects that will make a difference.

The council plan to consult with key players in and around Minehead and organise a series of workshops, before a consultation is extended to the wider community in the New Year.

West Somerset Council and Minehead Town Council are fully behind the initiative, having supported the Coastal Communities bid submitted by Engage West Somerset.

Research will be carried out to identify Minehead’s strengths and weaknesses and build on the work of Minehead Vision group that has successfully delivered a number of small-scale projects.

“The Vision Group achieved much in five years but we now have the opportunity to be more ambitious – and to make a fresh start,” said Cllr Roger Thomas, Chairman of the Minehead Coastal Community Team (CCT).

“The CCT already involves local authorities, business and tourism, the voluntary and community sector and young people.

“We are building a firm foundation for the work ahead that needs to be done to create a blueprint for economic recovery and growth. I know that by working together in the interests of Minehead we can achieve our ambitions.”