£20 million investment for Carlisle estates to be guided by community volunteers

The Raffles and Morton areas of Carlisle are poised for significant transformation following a £20 million investment facilitated by the UK government's Pride in Place programme.

This funding, spread over the next decade, aims to build stronger communities, create flourishing neighbourhoods, and empower local people to take control.

Leading the initiative is Joshua Jenkins, a local business owner appointed as Chair of the Neighbourhood Board that will steer the investment.

The search is now underway for fellow board members to collaborate in making impactful decisions for the local communities.

Joshua Jenkins expressed his gratitude for the position, noting the importance of community input in shaping the area's future:

“I’m very grateful to have been appointed Chair and I look forward to working with residents, organisations and the local authority in Raffles and Morton. This £20 million investment is a huge opportunity for local people to have their say and shape the future of our area. My priority is to listen carefully and ensure the board makes decisions that reflect what our communities need and want to see. I encourage every resident to get involved and share their views in the coming months to make the most of this opportunity.”

Passionate locals are encouraged to join the board with no specific qualifications required, just a strong connection to the area and a commitment to positive change.

Members must be over 18 and will be expected to attend monthly in-person meetings, with reasonable expenses covered.

Joshua Jenkins, who runs an eCommerce and consulting business and serves as Chair of The Gillford Centre's management committee, looks forward to meaningful collaborations.

Cllr Justin McDermott, Cumberland’s Portfolio Holder for Public Health and Communities, is optimistic about the potential of this initiative:

“I am delighted Joshua has now been appointed as the Raffles and Morton Chair person. It means the community can start to come together and decide, collectively, how they want this investment to change their area for the better. I hope lots of people come forward, particularly those who might feel they don’t normally have a voice in local decision making. We are looking for people who care about this area, understand the issues, and can speak up for the community. Pride in Place represents an excellent opportunity to change futures in Raffles and Morton.”

The Pride in Place programme targets areas of deprivation and weak social infrastructure, fostering collaboration among residents, MPs, councils, businesses, and community organisations.

Alongside Raffles and Morton, two other areas in Cumberland—Flimby, Ellenborough and Broughton Moor, and Kells, Mirehouse and Woodhouse—have also received £20 million each for development over ten years.

Neighbourhood Boards in each area will develop a 10-year vision and explore further investment opportunities.

Projects are slated to begin in Spring 2027.

Expressions of interest for joining the Raffles and Morton Neighbourhood Board are open until 10am on Thursday, 25th June. Visit Pride in Place programme | Cumberland Council for more information.