Flood defences to protect 100 homes will kick-start multi-million pound Rugeley regeneration

It is hoped the work will also attract new businesses to the town leading to the creation of 330 jobs.

The flood defence scheme, which will begin later this year, will see a 370-metre long embankment built along Western Springs Road to safeguard homes and businesses.

Council bosses say protecting sites at risk from flooding will mean business, leisure and housing development can take place in previously avoided areas.

The project also includes the construction of 150 new homes while business properties in the town's conservation area will be renovated.

There will be improved links between the town centre and railway station, the canal and the employment areas at Towers Business Park and Power Station Road to make it easier for residents and visitors to get around.

The council has received £1.29 million of Local Growth Deal funding towards the scheme but says more than £25m will be invested in the town centre in the coming years as part of wider development plans.

Leader of Cannock Chase District Council George Adamson said "The council is delighted and fully supports a scheme that will improve the town centre and create hundreds of new jobs."

Leader of Staffordshire County Council Philip Atkins added: "The announcement means people in Rugeley and the surrounding areas can look forward to regeneration and greater employment and leisure opportunities."

Meanwhile, the Friarsgate shopping and leisure development off Birmingham Road, Lichfield has received a £2.66million grant, paving the way for detailed plans to be drawn up.

It will see shops and restaurants built alongside a new homes and a cinema to help breathe new life into the city centre.

The funding will also help to revamp Lichfield City Bus Station and provide a link to the Three Spires shopping centre. It's estimated the overall scheme will lead to the creation of up to 750 jobs.

Leader of Lichfield District Council Mike Wilcox said he was pleased the scheme had received the funding boost.

"This is fantastic news for Lichfield and for the planned Friarsgate scheme.

"We're really looking forward to seeing the new plans for the development later this spring, and if approved, the scheme promises to bring much needed jobs, prosperity and revitalisation to Lichfield City centre.

"We're also looking forward to getting local people's views on the scheme later this year," he added.