Bridgwater residents are set to have a significant say in how a substantial regeneration fund of £20 million will be allocated over the next decade to revitalise parts of their town.
Chosen as the sole beneficiary within Somerset Council’s jurisdiction for phase two of the government’s Pride in Place programme, Bridgwater South is among 169 UK neighbourhoods receiving support aimed at fostering strong, resilient, and integrated communities.
The funding, earmarked for the Bridgwater South area-which encompasses much of the Hamp neighbourhood-will be managed over a ten-year period by a board composed of local people. This community-led approach ensures that those living there have direct influence over the regeneration projects.
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Following their latest meeting on Thursday 21 August, members of the board will engage with residents at the Mansfield Park community picnic on Saturday 29 August, providing an opportunity to hear public ideas and discuss the overarching regeneration plans.
Bridgwater South was chosen for this initiative due to its high ranking on the national index of deprivation, reflecting challenges related to amenities and quality of life. The targeted area includes communities situated around the Meads eco-park, embracing a range of local neighbourhoods.
The Pride in Place funding focuses on three key objectives:
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Build stronger communities: Initiatives should bring people together, nurture pride in their area, and enhance feelings of safety.
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Create thriving places: Efforts aim to foster vibrant neighbourhoods featuring busy high streets, diverse amenities, and quality physical infrastructure.
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Empower people to take back control: Projects are designed to enable residents to influence their community’s future and feel in charge of their lives.
Officials from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) recently attended the board meeting, expressing satisfaction with progress and commendation for the local commitment and enthusiasm.
The Mansfield Park community picnic, located at postcode TA6 6DN, will run from 11am to 2:30pm on 29 August, providing a chance for residents to propose project ideas or highlight priority areas for regeneration.
For those unable to attend, feedback can be submitted through the Bridgwater Pride in Place online survey at https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/jYcFFVcktt.
Sam Smith, chairman of the Pride in Place board, emphasised the importance of community involvement: “Pride in Place is all about local people having a genuine voice in shaping the future of Bridgwater South. We’ve made a positive start, but this is just the beginning.
“We want to hear from as many people as possible about what matters to them, what they love about their community, and what improvements they would like to see over the coming years.”
Bridgwater’s mayor, Councillor Leigh Redman, a resident of the Hamp area, echoed this sentiment: “Hamp in the Bridgwater South area is my home, which is why I am so passionate about ensuring local people help shape the future of our community.
“Pride in Place offers a real chance to invest in what matters most to residents, but that all starts with listening.
“Whether you complete the survey online, fill in a paper copy, or speak to one of us at a community event, please take the opportunity to share your views.
“We want to hear from people of all ages and backgrounds so that the vision we create truly reflects the hopes and ambitions of the whole community.”