THE district moved closer to a multi-million pound Euro windfall this week which could spark an investment bonanza.

The Government has announced that Lancaster, Morecambe, Heysham and wards in Caton can apply for Objective 2 status which, if confirmed by the European Commission, could unlock millions for improving run down areas, opening new development sites and supporting community projects.

If the scheme gets the go ahead a total of £2.5 billion of funding will be available for the UK over the next seven years.

Morecambe's MP Geraldine Smith was delighted that the plight of traditional seaside resorts had at last been recognised by Government.

She said: "For far too long seaside resorts have been left to fend for themselves and allowed to decline. I, along with Parliamentary colleagues from other resorts, have been pressing the Government to recognise the problems and take action." She added: "It is absolutely vital that we take advantage of this unique opportunity to get financial help for sustainable regeneration projects and bring about long term changes to the resort. We must anticipate that the bid will be successful and make plans accordingly."

The City Council's Economic Development Chairman, Cllr Paul Morris, said: "The area has been extremely successfully in attracting investment from many different sources but to achieve Objective 2 status is a real bonus. We can look to the future with added confidence."

Leader of the Green Party, Cllr Jon Barry added: "I am pleased that community projects will be eligible for European funding. The ability to secure longer term funding will be vital to the success of community projects, which can bring enormous benefits to local communities."

The money will be available at the end of 2000 if the European Commission gives the go ahead.

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