STRUGGLING high streets could earn a share of a multi-million pound fund to get shops back open after the lockdown.

Government minister Simon Clarke has announced the £50million scheme which will give councils cash to make sure safety steps can be put in place.

It includes money for street signs, markings, and temporary barriers and is part of the initiative to slowly reopen the economy from June 1.

Mr Clarke, who is the High Streets Minister, said £8.1 million has been set aside for the south east, which includes Sussex.

The money can be used for public spots like seafronts and promenades, and he said it will also allow councils to create marketing and safety campaigns to explain changes to the public.

Mr Clarke said: “As we begin to slowly return to normality, the re-opening of our high streets will be key to kick-starting our economic recovery.

“That’s why we are providing an extra £8.1 million for councils across the South East to support a range of safety measures that will help get these businesses back on track and ensure that people can enjoy their time visiting their local high street safely again.”

He said money will come from the European Regional Development Fund.