BLACKPOOL'S 10-year masterplan has been given a boost of almost £10 million.

The resort has been named an Economic Development Zone to qualify for European funding after a successful bid by Blackpool Borough and the Blackpool Challenge Partnership.

"This funding will enable us to kick start Blackpool's Masterplan and start us on the journey that will once again see Blackpool as the greatest tourist destination in the land."

The money will come over six years and will be spent on:

Creating quality public spaces

Enhancing the seafront

Securing new sites for visitor attractions

Improving transport and infrastructure.

The bid was approved by the European Programme Regional Monitoring Committee where Blackpool is represented by Mayor Councillor Ivan Taylor.

Said Coun Taylor: "I am delighted the bid has been successful and that we now have the resources to build on our town's future."

Partnership manager Alan Cavill said the cash would help re-establish Blackpool as one of the best resorts in Europe.

"Blackpool has scored a major breakthrough by becoming the only EDZ related to tourism. This funding will lead to the creation of hundreds of new jobs, attract investment and significantly improve areas of the town for residents and visitors.

"It will accelerate the transformation process that will see Blackpool reverse the decline in visitor numbers and re-establish itself in the premier league of European resorts."