MASSIVE regeneration funding for rural communities will see nearly £5 million pumped into four projects helping to create a jobs boost.

Funding for business start ups, young people, community groups, foot and cycle paths, infrastructure and improved broadband has been welcomed.

It is hoped rural areas in Flintshire will become more attractive places to live, jobs will be created and more tourists will come to the county.

Cllr Matt Wright, Flintshire’s executive member for Regeneration and Tourism, said: “This is excellent news for Flintshire’s rural communities. These projects have the potential to make a real difference to the lives of rural residents.

“The projects will provide significant investment opportunities for our rural towns
and villages, making them more attractive places to live, work and visit.”

Residents are now being encouraged to come up with ideas and bid for a share of the cash for worthwhile projects.

Cllr Wright said the money would benefit the whole county with areas including parts of Holywell and Saltney as well as more traditional rural areas eligible.

The funding has been allocated from the Rural Development Plan for Wales, which is funded by the Welsh Assembly Government and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development .

John Richards, chairman of Flintshire Rural Partnership, said: “The partnership welcomes the financial support provided by the Assembly along with cash funding or volunteer time from a range of other organisations.”

The projects start in March 2011 and will run until December 2013 and will be delivered by Flintshire Council and rural development agency Cadwyn Clwyd.

For information contact Flintshire Council on 01352 702135.