Local voices wanted to guide £30m investment in Telford neighbourhoods
Residents of Woodside, Brookside, and Sutton Hill are being invited to take the reins of a major regeneration project as the Pride in Place initiative opens its call for nominations.
The project, backed by a £30 million investment over the next decade, aims to put decision-making power directly into the hands of those who live and work in the areas facing the greatest challenges.
The programme is seeking individuals who possess a deep connection to their community, whether through lived experience, local employment, or a history of volunteering. Organisers have stressed that they are not looking for formal qualifications or polished applications. Instead, the focus is on finding authentic local voices who understand the unique needs of their streets and can help steer the substantial funding—comprising £20 million from the Government and £10 million from Telford & Wrekin Council—toward priorities that matter most to residents.
Reverend Jo Farnworth, the Independent Chair of the Pride in Place project, emphasised that the process has been designed to be as accessible as possible.
Reverend Jo Farnworth, Independent Chair of the Pride in Place project said:
“Pride in Place exists to reflect and strengthen the communities it serves. We are deliberately keeping this process straightforward and accessible.
“We are not looking for polished applications - we are looking for people who understand their community, who are listened to, and who care about shaping a positive future for their area.”
“Inviting people from the area to get involved is about recognising the knowledge, trust and leadership that already exists locally, and ensuring those perspectives are at the heart of decision-making.”
Councillor Carolyn Healy, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Planning and Sustainability said:
“Those who live here must shape the future and play a vital role in sharing insight from their areas, highlighting local priorities, and contributing ideas that support positive and lasting change.
“If you’re reading this and someone has already come to mind, we really want you to put them forward (with permission). So many people do brilliant things quietly, without ever putting themselves forward. This is about taking a moment to make sure local people are part of what happens next. We’re looking forward to the summer and the various events as another opportunity to make sure everyone has chance to express their ideas.”
Shaun Davies MP for Telford said: “Pride in place is about giving residents in Sutton Hill, Brookside and Woodside a real voice in shaping the future of their neighbourhoods.
“This project is rooted in local people and what matters to them. That’s why we’re inviting residents to get involved, share their views and help decide what happens next. We want to understand what’s important to you, what you’d like to see change and how we can work together.”
There is no requirement to be part of an organisation, and no formal experience is needed.
Nominations, with permission of the person, can be submitted online or with a paper form.
A short online form is available where people can submit a video (no longer than a minute), or fill out an online form, allowing people to share their ideas in a way that feels most comfortable. Applications can also be submitted at community centres including Park Lane Centre, Brookside Local Centre or the Hub on the Hill from 9am on Wednesday 29 April.
The closing date for nominations is Monday 25 May.
