The All Together for Spennymoor board was scheduled to discuss the progress of its investment plan and the transition to the new Pride in Place Programme (PiPP). The meeting's agenda also included updates on community engagement findings and the forward plan for upcoming activities.

All Together for Spennymoor Programme and Submission Update

The board was set to receive an update on the All Together for Spennymoor programme and its submission to central government. The investment plan, a key component of the programme, had been submitted ahead of the deadline and had passed an initial triage stage. The report pack indicated that the plan was undergoing more in-depth checks, with the expectation of receiving the first tranche of funding in April 2026. Key working groups were assigned responsibilities for developing designs, costs, and fund application guidance. A new intervention, 'Community Power', was to be introduced, with additional groups established to oversee its development and implementation. The report pack highlighted that the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) was impressed with the partnership developed with the Youth Council to enhance youth participation within the Pride in Place Programme (PiPP).

Community engagement findings were also scheduled for discussion. Approximately 4,000 people had attended the Spennymoor Christmas Market, where 204 members of the community were engaged. Strong support was expressed for the proposed projects. The report pack noted that some individuals had offered their time and expertise to support community development activities, and their contact details had been exchanged for future involvement. Youth engagement activities had resumed, with seven You Said, We Heard events held to test project ideas and gather support. The report pack suggested that the high level of community engagement helps build a positive reputation and strengthens the partnership beyond the initial 10-year plan. It was also noted that, unlike similar programmes, engagement had not declined over time, establishing a solid foundation for the next phase of the investment plan.

The board was recommended to approve the continued progression of the 4-year Investment Plan and 10-year vision.

Changes and Additions from Plan for Neighbourhoods to Pride in Place Programme

The board was scheduled to consider changes and additions to the programme prospectus, following the renaming of the Plan for Neighbourhoods programme to the Pride in Place Programme (PiPP). An updated prospectus had been received from MHCLG, outlining the principles and objectives of the new PiPP programme, which emphasises inclusive, community-led regeneration, local leadership, and long-term, place-based investment. The guidance provided clarity on the roles and responsibilities of Neighbourhood Boards and the process for defining place boundaries.

The PiPP expands the scope from 55 towns to 75 areas and includes a significant increase in funding. While the previous Plan for Neighbourhoods focused on regenerating local high streets and addressing crime, PiPP aims to create thriving places, build stronger communities, and empower local areas. The programme places a stronger emphasis on grassroots solutions and local empowerment. The interventions available for funding have been expanded, with a new intervention, 'Community Power', introduced alongside the previous eight. The revised programme guidance focuses on empowering local people to shape their neighbourhoods and support transformative projects.

The report pack noted that 51% of Board members must live and/or work in the boundary areas, and Boards must have at least eight members to ensure a broad range of perspectives. There were no impacts on resourcing to the programme, and the split of Capital (75%) and Revenue (25%) funding was being maintained. New areas would be working to a 63% Capital and 37% Revenue split.

Councillor Nicola Lyons was scheduled to request inclusion in the new Community Power Working Group.

The board was recommended to note the changes and update in the Programme from Plan for Neighbourhoods to Pride in Place Programme.

Forward Plan and Next Steps

The meeting was scheduled to review the forward plan and outline next steps. From April 2026, the first programme delivery funding payment was anticipated, marking the commencement of the delivery phase. The development of grant fund guidance and application processes for the business support fund was planned for January–February 2026, following a completed businesses mapping exercise.

A voluntary sector event was planned for February/March to discuss community group needs and share the wider offer of activities, clubs, and classes, with a focus on the proposed community development grant fund guidance and application process. A new business working group was scheduled to be launched and set up between February and April 2026. A calendar of events for the next 12 months was to be developed in collaboration with Spennymoor Town Council and Durham County Council (DCC).

Presentations were scheduled from Nicholas Bryan, DCC Transport and Infrastructure Manager, on options and feasibility for A688 Merrington Lane; Michelle Blades, DCC Area Coordinator, on the Spennymoor Employment and Skills Navigator; and Julie Anson, Community Economic Development Manager, on Business Support Fund Guidance and Application Process. Discussions were also planned regarding Cenotaph Design and Costs, and New Car Park Design and Costs.

Engagement next steps included face-to-face public engagement events and co-development of projects at various community centres and local events. In 2026, these events would focus on introducing the objectives of the new neighbourhood plan, gathering feedback, and fostering ongoing dialogue. This approach was to be sustained over the full 10-year period of the plan.

The report pack highlighted the importance of timely release of Government funding for work to begin on schedule. The approach taken in Spennymoor was regarded as good practice. There was a suggestion to develop distinct branding to differentiate communications from those of the Council. It was also proposed that local councillors be approached to contribute funding towards promotional activity and that a dedicated marketing and communications budget be allocated to the Board.

The board was recommended to note the information presented.

Any Other Business

Under Any Other Business, the board was scheduled to discuss the Pride in Place Winter Event held on 3 February 2026, which provided an opportunity to connect with other areas in the Pride in Place network and learn from their experiences.

A request for support for the Spennymoor Town Council Heritage and Culture Event was also on the agenda. The board had approved funding within the 4-year investment plan to strengthen and promote heritage and culture. A request for £5,000 to support the Town Council with an event was to be used as an engagement exercise over a six-month period to ascertain community support and help shape the wider project. Ian Geldard declared an interest as a Spennymoor Town Councillor. It was clarified that supporting the event would be procedurally appropriate as the Town Hall building is a project identified within the PiPP programme. The event was to be presented for approval at the next Town Council meeting. The board was supportive of the event in principle, with funding contingent on Town Council approval.

Permission was also requested for an additional Youth Council representative to shadow the current representative, providing continuity.

The board was recommended to agree in principle to £5,000 to support the Town Council's Heritage and Culture Event, pending approval by the Town Council, and to agree to an additional Youth Council representative on the Board. Councillor Karen Allison was also scheduled to attend the Pride in Place winter Event.

Project Presentations

The meeting was scheduled to include project presentations from Nicholas Bryan, DCC Transport and Infrastructure Manager; Debbie Connell, Spennymoor Town Council Community and Culture Manager; and Michelle Blades, DCC Area Coordinator.