An extra £4m will be spent on putting the finishing touches to Blackpool's sea wall project.

The funds provided by central government and the North West Development Agency, will help to complete the transformation of the 1.9 mile wall between the Sandcastle and North pier, which is being rebuilt, as part of the resort's regeneration.

The total cost of the rebuild will be in the region of £70m, with the majority of funds for phase one of the project provided by central government.

The NWDA, will partially fund phase two which includes improving pedestrian access, increasing the seating area, and cleaning up its appearance.

Chief executive of the NWDA, Steven Broomhead, said: "The idea for the project is to provide a high quality environment in one of the most intensely used public areas in the region."

The agency has given £8m towards phase one and the new cash, will be spent over the next 18 months, providing areas of soft landscaping on the promenade, pedestrian crossings across the tramway and better landscaping.

Jackie Potter, executive director for regeneration and tourism at Blackpool Council, said: "This additional £4m funding for the sea wall project is very welcome.

"It will enable us to enhance the landscaping work we are doing between the tram tracks and the pavement where we are providing a seamless transition from highway to promenade.

"The new promenade is really beginning to take shape and I'm sure will be enjoyed by visitors and residents alike."