Birmingham City Council has appointed independent chairs across all nine neighbourhoods selected to receive long-term investment through the government's Pride in Place Programme.
The appointments mark a major milestone for what is the largest Pride in Place programme in the country. The nine designated areas in Birmingham will each benefit from up to £20 million over the next decade, totalling £180m.
How the Neighbourhood Boards will work
The chairs lead resident-led Neighbourhood Boards, which bring together residents, community organisations and key stakeholders including the local MP and at least one ward councillor. These boards are tasked with shaping a shared vision for their neighbourhoods and determining priorities for future investment.
Neighbourhood Boards have begun meeting across the city. Work is underway to develop long-term plans that reflect local ambitions. Early "quick win" projects are being identified to help communities see tangible benefits while longer-term plans are developed.
Residents will have opportunities to engage with and influence the programme. Decisions taken by the boards are rooted in the views of local people, shaping both quick-win projects and longer-term ambitions.
Support for chairs and boards
Birmingham City Council has funded a dedicated delivery team including Pride in Place Area Leads. This funding does not draw on the Pride in Place money awarded to areas, leaving that funding focused on local priorities.
Independent chairs have received tailored training in governance, finance, procurement, democratic processes and legacy planning. Area Leads will provide ongoing support to boards, acting as secretariat and ensuring robust governance arrangements are in place.
As the accountable body, the council will work closely with boards and partners to ensure funding complies with government requirements and delivers maximum impact for residents.
Wider neighbourhood work
The Pride in Place Programme is part of Birmingham City Council's wider commitment to strengthening neighbourhoods. This includes Local Partnership Officers working in each of Birmingham's 69 wards to support ward meetings and local community organisations working together to improve their neighbourhoods.
