The newly formed Bridgwater Pride in Place board convened for its first meeting to steer the delivery of £20 million in regeneration projects set to benefit Bridgwater over the next ten years.
Bridgwater is the sole town within the Somerset Council region to receive support in phase two of the government’s Pride in Place programme. This scheme aims to revitalize 169 UK neighbourhoods by fostering strong, resilient and integrated communities.
Funding will be focused on community projects within the Bridgwater South area, encompassing much of the Hamp neighbourhood. The budget of £20 million, to be allocated over a decade, will be overseen by a board comprising residents and local stakeholders.
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Following a drop-in event in April, Sam Smith, a lifelong resident of the Hamp estate, was appointed chairman of the Pride in Place programme board. The inaugural full board meeting marked the beginning of their work, with further opportunities planned for local residents to propose projects and identify areas needing improvement in the coming months.
Bridgwater South was selected for this investment due to its high ranking on the national index of deprivation, reflecting challenges in amenities and quality of life. The area includes communities on both sides of the Meads eco-park and adjacent neighbourhoods.
The Pride in Place funding is guided by three core objectives: to improve community wellbeing, enhance local amenities, and strengthen social cohesion.
The board includes representatives from the local community, partner organisations, and key stakeholders. At their first meeting, members focused on developing a shared vision for the area’s future.
The board will oversee the effective use of government funding to support projects that align with the needs and ambitions of local residents.
Chairman Sam Smith commented: “The first board meeting marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Bridgwater South. Pride in Place offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to secure investment that can bring meaningful, long-lasting improvements to our community.
“Our commitment is to ensure residents remain at the heart of every discussion and decision. We look forward to collaborating closely with local people, community groups and partners to set priorities and deliver positive outcomes over the next decade.”
Following the inaugural meeting, board members will engage directly with residents throughout Bridgwater South to maintain local voices at the centre of decision-making as the programme progresses.