A major long-term investment programme is progressing in Twerton and Whiteway, with up to £20 million set to be spent over the next ten years to improve opportunities for local people.
Twerton in Bath | Library image
The Pride in Place programme is community-led, with decision-making deliberately placed in the hands of residents. Any member of the local community will be able to get involved and help shape how the funding is used.
At the heart of the scheme will be a new Neighbourhood Board, set up to manage the programme and act as champions for the area. The board will be led by an independent chairperson appointed through a competitive process.
The chair role will be a part-time salaried position, while board members will be able to claim reasonable expenses.
Work to bring Pride in Place to life will begin with a series of community events running from 27th February to 8th March. The sessions are designed to give residents, businesses and local organisations space to come together, share ideas and set ambitions for the project.
Events will be held at The Annex, Bath Foyer, which is being made available with support from housing association Curo, alongside other activities taking place across the neighbourhood.
Councillor Kevin Guy, leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “We have written to all addresses in the area.
“If you get a letter, please spare a few minutes to read about Pride in Place and how you can get involved. It is an amazing opportunity for people who live and work in the area to make changes that will improve opportunities for everyone in Twerton and Whiteway.
“One of the first issues the board will be asked to look at is the project boundary. A change of boundary is fully supported by ward councillors who have been campaigning for Whiteway to be fully included.”
Councillor Paul Roper, cabinet member for economic and cultural sustainable development, added: “We strongly encourage the Twerton and Whiteway community to get involved at the upcoming events as well as the wider Pride in Place programme.
“Neighbourhoods and communities are not defined by lines on maps. They are formed of groups of people who have meaningful relationships and a shared sense of place, identity, or purpose.
“From residents to businesses, charities to clubs all are welcome to participate.”
Applications for the independent chairperson and Neighbourhood Board roles will open in mid-February. Anyone who is from, living or working in the Twerton and Whiteway ward, holds a prominent community role, or simply has a passion for the area will be eligible to apply.
