Community projects to receive funding boost through Pride in Place grants

Community organisations in Dudley are set to benefit from £420,000 funding over the next 12 months, following an announcement today.

The government’s Pride in Place Programme, led by the Dudley Neighbourhood Board and supported by Dudley Council, will see £20 million of investment over the next ten years.

The funding will go towards locally identified priorities within a designated area stretching from Priory to Dudley Wood, including Netherton and Dudley town centres, following an extensive period of community engagement

In June, local groups were invited to apply for grants to deliver projects that make a difference in the area, which contribute to the aims of the Pride in Place programme.

Today’s announcement will see 33 organisations receive a share of more than £420,000 in grant funding to deliver projects that support the community’s priority investment areas and contribute to the Pride in Place objectives.

A smaller pot of money was originally earmarked for community grants, but the board was impressed with the quality and relevance of applications and increased the amount for release in order to allow more projects to benefit.

Successful initiatives include upgrading local community facilities, creating inclusive spaces, wellbeing and support service programmes including youth development and upgrades and improvements to green spaces and parks.

Collectively, it is hoped the projects will help to reduce isolation, improve wellbeing, strengthen community connections and improve local facilities, ensuing they remain safe, accessible and sustainable for residents. 

Project delivery will begin in September 2026, with activities and improvements expected to benefit hundreds of residents across areas including Dudley town centre, Netherton town centre and Wrens Nest National Nature Reserve.

Neil Thomas, Chair of the Dudley Neighbourhood Board, said: “As a board we are absolutely thrilled to be releasing this first batch of funding under the Pride in Place Programme.

“We wanted to dedicate as much funding to community grants and organisations as possible in this first year of the programme, given the amazing work that they do and the important role they have played in shaping our Pride in Place objectives.

“This is just beginning, and the board will be releasing further opportunities to access funding throughout the 10 year programme, with the next round planned for early 2027.

“People can keep an eye out for more exciting news soon and a very well done to all our successful applicants in this first round. We can’t wait to see the impact this funding has over the coming months.”

Councillor Damian Corfield, cabinet member for neighbourhoods, added: “We are really pleased to see this first wave of funding announced as part of the £20 million investment through the Pride of Place Programme.

“I would like to congratulate the successful applicants and look forward to seeing the next steps in this exciting programme.”