Walsall councillors have given the green light to the next stage of a £20 million government investment earmarked for Brownhills, a move that unlocks the town's participation in the national Pride in Place programme.
Brownhills was named by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) as one of the areas selected for the initiative in March this year. At a cabinet meeting held on July 22, members approved the authority to act as the accountable body for the funding, a crucial step in the programme's delivery.
Council's role clarified
Councillor Nicky Barker, portfolio holder for regeneration and deputy leader of Walsall Council, stressed that the council's involvement is supportive rather than directive. "Brownhills has been identified by the government as eligible for up to £20million of investment over 10 years," she said.
"It is important to recognise that the council does not approve the Pride in Place plan once developed by the board. The plan will be submitted to the MHCLG for assessment and approval," Barker added. "The council’s role is to support the process and ensure public funds are managed appropriately rather than direct the programme itself."
Ensuring financial governance
The decision ensures that proper financial administration, governance assurance, and reporting arrangements are in place so Brownhills can fully participate in the programme while respecting the independent, community-led model established by the government.
This move comes as Brownhills becomes the sixth area in Walsall to benefit from significant government funding. Bloxwich and Walsall town centre have each secured £21.3 million, while £20 million has already been allocated to Willenhall, Darlaston, and Blakenall.
Community-led investment
Leader of Walsall Council, Councillor Elaine Williams, highlighted the transformative potential of the funding. "Brownhills has a significant opportunity to benefit from up to £20m government investment over the next decade through the Pride in Place programme, helping residents shape improvements that matter most to the community," she said.
"This is an important step towards securing long-term investment for Brownhills and ensuring local people play a central role in shaping the future of the area," Williams added.
The Pride in Place programme is designed to empower communities to lead regeneration efforts, with the council acting as a facilitator rather than a director. The next stage will involve the development of a detailed plan by the local board, which will then be submitted for final approval by the MHCLG.
