Two local projects are set to benefit from almost £500,000 from the Hinkley Point C Community Impact Mitigation (CIM) Fund.

The projects in Bridgwater and North Petherton are designed to help mitigate some of the impacts that are likely to affect the two towns as the Hinkley Point C construction project moves into the next phase of work.

The Bridgwater Town Centre Support scheme will support a series of projects over the next four years with the aim of increasing footfall into the town centre and building a stronger shopping offer.

A total of £116,070 was provided by the fund, together with a £148,000 investment from Sedgemoor District Council, £35,000 from Bridgwater Town Council and £10,000 from Bridgwater Town Team.

The Southern Bridgwater and North Petherton Community Mitigation Scheme has also benefitted from £345,000 from the fund to improve walking and cycling facilities, as well as traffic calming measures.The investment form part of a wider £752,000 scheme.

The Hinkley Point C Community Impact Mitigation Fund was negotiated with EDF Energy as part of a wider mitigation package for the site preparation works at Hinkley Point.