Wiltshire is set to receive one of the largest shares in government funding to help boost high streets post-lockdown.

The Welcome Back Fund is a £56m government scheme to boost high streets and prepare for the safe return of shoppers and tourists.

Wiltshire is one of the first 70 local authorities to receive funding and has been allocated £449,858.

Chippenham MP, Michelle Donelan, said: “Wiltshire is now not only one of the first areas to receive this government funding, but it is set to receive one of the highest allocations of any local authority in the country.

“With this funding, Wiltshire Council will be able to directly improve our outdoor spaces and the added measure of giving pubs and restaurant flexibility on outdoor seating will be reinforced by a series of fairer parking measures, something I have campaigned on for years, which will ultimately encourage more people to return to our town centres and I am very much looking forward to meeting constituents and businesses in person once again.”

The Welcome Back Fund will seek to help councils boost tourism, improve green spaces and provide more outdoor seating, markets and pop-up stalls.

The funding can also be used to run publicity campaigns and prepare for events like festivals and street markets.

Sam Fox, corporate director place, said: “As we start to come out of lockdown, the council will play a key role in helping businesses reopen safely and provide confidence and reassurance to the public that they can shop safely.

“This additional funding of £449,858 from the government’s Welcome Back Fund is very welcomed to further support our local high streets.

“We look forward to receiving the full guidance from government as soon as possible so that we can consider the various measures that could be implemented this year.”

Communities secretary, Robert Jenrick has selected Wiltshire as one of the first 70 council areas to receive the funding.

He said: "Our Welcome Back Fund gives every city, town and high street support to prepare for a great summer. This funding will help councils and businesses to welcome shoppers, diners and tourists back safely."