Local people are being invited to play a vital role in shaping the future of their communities as applications open to join Ipswich’s two new Pride in Place Neighbourhood Boards.
Ipswich Borough Council is seeking residents and people with strong local connections either to Stoke Park and Chantry, or Whitehouse areas, to join these Boards to help decide how significant long-term investment is used to benefit their areas.
The Pride in Place programme is a major government-backed initiative designed to give communities the power to influence how funding is spent locally, with up to £20 million available for each of these two Ipswich neighbourhoods over a 10-year period.
The Neighbourhood Boards will bring together residents, community groups, businesses and partners to identify priorities, shape a long-term vision, and ensure funding is used to deliver meaningful improvements.
Board members will play a key role in:
- Listening to what matters most to local people
- Setting priorities for their neighbourhood
- Deciding how funding is allocated
- Overseeing projects to ensure they deliver real benefits
Councillor Neil MacDonald, Leader of Ipswich Borough Council said: “Pride in Place is a huge opportunity for our communities. This is about putting real decision-making power into the hands of local people, so they can shape the future of their neighbourhoods for years to come.
“We want to hear from people of all backgrounds and experiences who care about their area and want to make a positive difference.”
No formal qualifications are needed to apply, and the Council is particularly encouraging applications from people whose voices are not always heard, including younger residents and those from under-represented groups.
Successful applicants will join the voluntary boards, supported by training, guidance and ongoing support from the Council. Members will attend regular meetings, contribute to discussions and work collaboratively to represent the interests of the whole community.
The Board will help shape a 10-year vision and oversee the delivery of a four-year investment plan, ensuring funding reflects the priorities of local residents.
Applications are now open, and anyone interested in making a difference in their local area is encouraged to apply.
To find out more and submit an application, visit our Pride in Place webpage.
