MINEHEAD’S seafront will be benefiting from a big chunk of government funding with hopes of it helping to boost tourism and training opportunities in the area.


The Beach Hotel will receive £323,000 from the Coastal Communities Fund.


Over 20 new jobs will be provided with the money as well as apprenticeships and traineeships.
Money will also be used to renew the hotel facilities.


The Hotel was secured by the YMCA in November 2013.


As well as providing jobs and accommodation to young people in West Somerset, the Hotel will also be home to a museum, the tourist information centre and a cafe.


Martin Hodgson, chief executive of YMCA Somerset Coast was ecstatic at hearing the news.


He said: “This is the final piece of the jigsaw, this money will allow us to create jobs and help reinvigorate an area of Minehead with so much going for it.


“The funding will make such a difference both physically to a landmark building but most importantly to people of West Somerset in terms of employment and training opportunities.”


Alongside the cafe and visitor’s centre, there will be 13 luxury bedrooms, a restaurant, and conference and meeting rooms.


MP for West Somerset, Ian Liddell Grainger added: “I am absolutely delighted by this announcement.


“The YMCA has worked very hard to put this project together to help young people in Minehead and to provide employment and training in the tourist industry which is so important in the area.”


West Somerset College will be delivering the training element.


The cafe opens its doors on March 15, with the Hotel and Restaurant opening in May.


Minehead Development Trust vision manager Stephen Hooper said: “Having the YMCA take over this building on the gateway to the town has been so refreshing, the young people who are already engaged with the project have such enthusiasm and ownership for the Hotel, we can’t wait to see it open and catering for residents and visitors alike.”