Residents in the Walsall neighbourhood of Blakenall are being called on to apply for the role of independent chair of a new neighbourhood board, which will oversee how £20 million of government funding is spent over the next ten years. Applications are open until Tuesday, August 18.
£20m Investment for Deprived Neighbourhood
Blakenall was one of 169 'deprived' neighbourhoods selected by central government last year for its Pride in Place programme, a ten-year initiative run by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). The specific target area, known as Blakenall South, stretches from Bloxwich Road, encompassing Harden, some homes south of Well Lane, and the Wyrley View estate off Goscote Lane.
The programme requires the creation of a resident-led board to decide how the money is allocated. The board chair will play a key role in facilitating discussions and ensuring the board remains focused on community priorities.
Role of the Chair and How to Apply
A government spokesperson said: “The chair will bring people together, lead open discussion and keep the board focused on the wider community. The role calls for someone who cares about the area, listens well and can earn the trust of people with different views and experiences.”
Local residents can also register their interest in getting involved with the board, regardless of their background or connection to the area. The government is inviting views from everyone who lives or works in the area, asking what they value about local life, what they would change, and where the investment could make the greatest difference.
The spokesperson added: “Local people can register their interest in getting involved with the neighbourhood board. Interest is welcomed from people with different backgrounds, experiences and connections to the area. At the same time, views are invited from everyone who lives or works in the area. People are being asked what they value about local life, what they would change and where the investment could make the greatest difference. The Pride in Place team will be out and about across the area in the coming weeks.”
MP Urges Community Involvement
Valerie Vaz, MP for Walsall and Bloxwich, said: “I am delighted that the Labour government is investing up to £20 million in parts of Blakenall, Harden and Goscote. This is a significant opportunity for the area over the next ten years. The people who live and work here know the area best. Their experiences, ideas and ambitions should shape the priorities and the decisions that follow. I am calling on local people to share their views and help set those priorities. I also want to hear from people who care about the area and could bring the community together as chair of the new neighbourhood board.”
The application deadline for the chair position is Tuesday, August 18. Residents interested in the role or in sharing their views can register their interest with the Pride in Place team, which will be engaging with the community in the coming weeks.
