Pride in Place is a national Government programme that provides long-term funding to improve neighbourhoods that need it most, including Birchen Coppice.

Its aim is to give local communities real influence over how investment is used, ensuring that residents help shape decisions about their area’s future.

The programme will invest approximately £19.6 million over a 10-year period across Birchen Coppice, Rifle Range, Silverwoods, and the Foley Park area to drive meaningful improvements. This funding can be used on a number of projects identified by the Community including things like the enhancement of public spaces, the creation of better training or employment opportunities, the development of youth or community activities, initiatives that promote healthier, safer neighbourhoods or improved access to sustainable or public transport.

A key principle of Pride in Place is that local people are at the heart of decision-making. Instead of the council deciding how the funding is spent, a Neighbourhood Board made up largely of residents and community representatives develops a plan and chooses which projects to deliver and this will be informed through engagement with the community. The council’s role is to manage the funding, while the board ensures projects reflect community priorities.

Overall, Pride in Place is about empowering communities, improving quality of life, and making lasting, positive changes driven by the people who live there.