Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin has today announced a £10 million package to improve sea links between Scilly and Cornwall and upgrade roads on St Mary’s. The Minister is visiting the islands today.
This new funding involves £7.3 million towards the £12.8 million scheme to improve harbor infrastructure at both St Mary’s and Penzance and £1.8 million to repair and resurface public roads.
Mr McLoughlin said: “ Our small ports are vital to the livelihoods of the communities they serve and are the lifeblood of the local economy. The government has already provided significant funding to reverse the damage caused by an exceptionally wet and windy winter. I want to see this additional money help the recovery in these coastal towns.”
The harbor development program will see the quay extended and widened at St Mary’s, along with provision of new freight storage facilities and improved access for passengers.
“ This funding will make a huge difference to the people of Scilly and also to visitors to the island, so vital to the local economy. Good transport links and high quality infrastructure are key for the island. These improvements will not only make it easier for those living on the islands to get about, but will also benefit those visiting the Scilly Isles, which is very important for the local economy, ” concluded Mr McLoughlin.
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August 13, 2014