Disadvantaged coastal resorts around England are set to benefit from a £45m funding boost from the government.

The investment aims to facilitate the regeneration of culture and the arts in run-down seaside resorts and thereby stimulate wider improvements and economic benefits in the areas.

An investment of £15m will be made by the DCMS each year from 2008 to 2011.

The Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE) has been appointed to identify the projects, including historic high streets and public spaces, galleries and concert halls, where investment in the arts infrastructure will revive fading seaside destinations.

The Big Lottery Fund will be an important partner, and it is anticipated that additional financial support will be forthcoming from public and private sector investors.

Culture secretary James Purnell said: “England’s coastal resorts are a much-loved part of our heritage, but it’s a sad fact that many have been in decline in recent decades.

“We know that public investment in cultural projects and public spaces can give a huge kick-start to local regeneration.”