A £1.2 MILLION boost for Severnside has been given to South Gloucestershire to improve transport links and help people find employment.

The grant from the Government's Coastal Communities Fund is part of a record £36 million aimed at helping growth in such areas.

It will be used to support projects that will create nearly 3,000 jobs and nearly 1,500 apprenticeships and training places across the country.

South Gloucestershire Council's grant is expected to benefit 120 businesses and create more than 120 jobs.

By improving bus and cycleway links, people looking for work will find it easier to get access to areas of employment.

Council leader Matthew Riddle said: “We are delighted. The money will be used to create vibrant, viable communities in the Severnside area.

“This fund will support much-needed investment in improved transport links to help people to gain access to employment opportunities.

"As well as providing a shuttle bus and new cycleways, a business network will be developed to support firms to work together to boost economic prosperity and encourage new businesses and jobs to the area.

“Two new community based employment hubs will also be created, providing advice and information to help residents start and grow new businesses and social enterprises.

"This is a welcome boost to the economic development potential of the community within the enterprise area.”

The Coastal Communities Fund was created in 2012 to help those areas achieve their economic potential, reduce unemployment and create new opportunities for young people.

Its latest grants also include £360,000 for the MV Balmoral Fund to help repair and refurbish the historic cruise ship Balmoral and bring it back into service.

Until 2012, many people enjoyed excursions on the vessel, which was a consort ship to the paddle steamer Waverley for 25 years. It is in Bristol docks and it is hoped to re-start commercial trips on board the vessel this year.