Residents in Penhill to shape their neighbourhood’s future with £20m investment
Pride in Place programme empowers community-led initiatives
Over 40 residents in Penhill have begun actively steering the future of their neighbourhood with the launch of the Pride in Place programme. This community-led initiative aims to direct up to £20 million in investment into Penhill over the next decade.
The first community conversation took place on 19th February at The Meadows in Leigh Road, where locals, community groups, and partners engaged in discussions about their priorities and visions for Penhill’s future. Pride in Place emphasizes resident-driven decision-making, supporting local ideas and projects tailored to enhance spaces, improve community ties, and foster wellbeing and inclusion.
Through resident partnerships rather than external bodies determining what is needed, the programme ensures that local voices are central to decision-making. Attendees at the event communicated their feelings of pride in Penhill and shared thoughts on leveraging its strengths and creating more communal opportunities.
Decisions about the fund’s use will be made by a resident-led neighbourhood board with an independent chair, while Swindon Borough Council will oversee the fund's administration.
Councillor Jim Grant, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnerships, highlighted the importance of community involvement:
"Pride in Place is about putting residents firmly in the driving seat. They know their local neighbourhood and what will make a real difference to their lives."
With plans for Walcot East to receive similar investment through Pride in Place, residents there are invited to join the conversation on 24th February at Buckhurst Community Centre from 7pm to 8.30pm. This will allow locals to share their views and engage in shaping the future of their neighbourhood.
The programme’s core focus is community engagement, with a series of events and activities planned to maximize investment opportunities. These initiatives aim to strengthen community connections and build a future collaboratively shaped by those who live and work in the area.