Proposal lodged for £20m town transformation

Money could be available for Canvey Island next year

A regeneration plan for Canvey Island has been submitted to the government.

The £20m proposal for the Essex town is intended to transform the area over the next two decades.

The funding would form part of the government's Plan for Neighbourhoods.

Kate Willard, interim chair of the Canvey Island Neighbourhood Board, said: "This plan reflects the voices of Canvey Island residents. From young people imagining their future to community groups shaping priorities, we have listened carefully."

The money could be spent on a High Street a makeover and offering employment support for young people.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said local boards – made up of residents, businesses and "campaigners" – would decide how the money would be used.

If the plans are approved, the funds could start to be released in April 2026.

Across the UK, 75 places have been told they could receive money. In the East of England, these include Great Yarmouth, King's Lynn and Thetford in Norfolk and Wisbech in Cambridgeshire.