More than 2,000 people help shape programme priorities

More than 2,000 people who live or work in an identified area of the borough have had their say on priorities for its future.

The Plan for Neighbourhoods programme, now part of the Government’s Pride in Place approach, is making up to £20m available to Dudley Council over ten years, to invest in locally identified priorities within the designated area.

The money will be spent on improvements from the Priory to Dudley Wood and incorporating Netherton and Dudley town centre.

An extensive consultation took place over the summer, with the findings now being used to shape how funding is allocated.

Improvements to safety and security, investment in parks and green spaces, and uplifting Dudley and Netherton town centres were highlighted, alongside other activity such as youth provision, investing in community facilities and events that bring people together.

Residents were invited to share their views via a survey, through conversations at events across the area, and by engaging with the network of community researchers trained through the programme.

The Dudley Neighbourhood Board is leading the programme and has representatives from community groups, politicians, the police, education, visitor attractions and businesses operating in the area.

Closely supported by Dudley Council, the board is chaired by Neil Thomas. Paul Crofts, CEO at Dudley Canal and Caverns, is vice chair.

Councillor Simon Phipps, cabinet member for development and regulation, said: “We were delighted with the response to the consultation on priorities for Plan for Neighbourhoods and those who took part made it really clear how they felt the money should be spent to improve the places where they live.

“In terms of next steps, the board will now be looking to agree on the investment priorities drawing on the community feedback and existing data.

“This will be used to finalise the Regeneration Plan, which the board will be asked to approve next month before it goes off to the government for final sign off.”

Neil Thomas, Chair of the Dudley Neighbourhood Board, added: “On behalf of the Board I would like to thank everyone who took the time to help shape the priorities for the Plan for Neighbourhoods programme this summer.

“Also to thank our community researchers who facilitated so many conversations enabling us to hear from people who might not usually respond to a standard survey.

“Understanding local priorities is central to the programme and the board is committed to responding to them.  We understand that priorities will change over ten years so this will be an ongoing conversation.”

People can find out more about the programme at regeneratingdudley.org.uk.