Local People Lead Projects to Bring Empty Buildings Back to Life in 40 UK Communities Backed by National Funding

The government has announced a major boost to its Pride in Place programme, extending funding and decision-making power to 40 additional communities across the UK.

Residents in these areas will now have a direct say in how up to £20 million is invested over the next decade to transform their neighbourhoods.

This expansion marks a significant step in the decade-long initiative that puts local people in the driver’s seat, letting them design solutions that matter to them instead of top-down mandates from Whitehall.

Residents Shape Their Own Communities

From reviving youth centres and repairing playgrounds to turning vacant buildings into community hubs, the Pride in Place programme empowers neighbourhoods to identify and fund projects that enhance everyday life.

Affordable after-school activities and public spaces are among the top priorities voiced by residents, highlighting the importance of local input in shaping services that truly reflect community needs.

“Strong communities aren’t built for people—they’re built by them,” said Communities Secretary Steve Reed.

“Pride in Place gives residents the tools and the funding to create spaces where they belong, where neighbours can come together, and where local services are protected.”

Joining a Growing Nationwide Movement

These 40 new neighbourhoods join 244 existing areas already benefiting from Pride in Place, bringing the total to 284 communities across the UK.

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As funds begin to flow, local projects are set to take shape in streets, town centres, playgrounds, and other shared spaces, making tangible improvements residents can see and enjoy.

The government says full details of how these areas were selected, based on an updated methodology, will be published soon.

Communities include neighbourhoods in Bournemouth, Coventry, Birmingham, Manchester, and more, reflecting the programme’s reach across cities, towns, and regions.

Broader Support for Families

Alongside the Pride in Place expansion, the government is continuing to address challenges that affect daily life.

Measures include a £117 reduction on energy bills, support for households reliant on heating oil, frozen rail fares and prescription charges, and the rollout of free breakfast clubs.

“These initiatives complement Pride in Place by safeguarding families while neighbourhoods take the lead in shaping the places they live,” Reed added.

Impact and Consequences

The expanded programme promises to strengthen community ties, protect essential services, and give residents more control over local priorities.

By funding locally designed projects, the government hopes to create lasting social and economic benefits, from safer streets and improved facilities to increased community engagement and pride.

What’s Next?

Implementation is already underway in the newly selected areas, with local councils and community groups preparing to turn plans into action.

The government will continue monitoring progress and supporting residents as they manage funds and deliver improvements tailored to their neighbourhoods.

Summary

The Pride in Place programme now reaches 284 communities, giving residents funding and authority to shape their local areas.

This latest expansion adds 40 neighbourhoods, supporting projects like playgrounds, youth centres, community spaces, and affordable activities.

Broader family support measures are also ongoing to improve quality of life across the UK.

Bulleted Takeaways

• 40 new neighbourhoods selected for Pride in Place funding.
• £20 million per community over ten years to fund local priorities.
• Residents have direct control over projects like youth centres, playgrounds, and community hubs.
• Total programme coverage reaches 284 communities across the UK.
• Government complements the initiative with energy bill support, frozen rail fares, prescription charges, and free breakfast clubs.
• Focus remains on building strong, resilient, and locally led communities.