Bridgwater residents will have a valuable opportunity over the August bank holiday weekend to contribute their opinions on how a £20 million investment will be allocated over the next ten years, aimed at regenerating part of their town.
Bridgwater was the only town in the Somerset Council jurisdiction chosen to benefit from phase two of the government’s Pride in Place programme. This initiative supports 169 UK neighbourhoods to foster strong, resilient and integrated communities.
The Bridgwater South area, which encompasses much of the Hamp neighbourhood, will receive £20 million in funding spread over a decade. The distribution of these funds will be overseen by a board consisting of local community members.
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Following their latest meeting on Thursday 21 August, members of the board will be present at the Mansfield Park community picnic on Saturday 29 August. They will be engaging with residents to listen to ideas and discuss the wider regeneration programme.
The Bridgwater South area was selected by central government due to its high ranking on the national index of deprivation, reflecting challenges in amenities and quality of life.
This area includes communities on both sides of the Meads eco-park and residences in various nearby locations.
The Pride in Place funding focuses on three key objectives:
- Building stronger communities: supporting projects that unite people, foster pride in the local area, and enhance feelings of safety.
- Creating thriving places: encouraging vibrant neighbourhoods with lively high streets, diverse local amenities, and quality infrastructure.
- Empowering people to take back control: providing opportunities for residents to influence their community’s future and feel in control of their lives.
Representatives from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) recently attended the board’s meeting and expressed their satisfaction with the progress so far, praising the enthusiasm and commitment demonstrated locally.
At the Mansfield Park community picnic (postcode TA6 6DN) on Saturday 29 August, from 11am to 2:30pm, board members will be available to hear suggestions for projects and discuss priorities for regeneration.
For those unable to attend in person, the Bridgwater Pride in Place online survey remains open and can be accessed at https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/jYcFFVcktt.
Sam Smith, chairman of the Pride in Place board, said: “Pride in Place is about ensuring local people have a genuine voice in shaping the future of Bridgwater South. While we have made a positive start, this is only the beginning.
“We want to hear from as many people as possible about what matters to them-the things they love about their community and the improvements they would like to see in the coming years.
“Whether you complete the survey online, fill out a paper copy, or speak to one of us at a community event, please take the opportunity to share your views.
“We aim to hear from people of all ages and backgrounds so the vision we develop truly reflects the hopes and ambitions of the entire community.”