The Economy and Sustainability Scrutiny Panel met to discuss the Ealing Pride in Place programme, focusing on its criteria, scope, and delivery approach for high streets and town centres. The panel also reviewed the council's terms of reference and work programme for 2026/2027.

Ealing Pride in Place Programme

The panel discussed the Ealing Pride in Place programme, a £1.4 million initiative funded by the council to enhance public spaces in high streets and town centres. This programme aligns with the national Pride in Place strategy and the council's own Connected Communities vision and Council Plan. The approach aims to foster local pride through community participation, co-production, and resident influence, with a focus on creating demonstrator projects.

The methodology for identifying priority areas will combine the Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) and the Community Needs Index (CNI), alongside local evidence and stakeholder engagement. A phased approach to delivery is planned, starting with capacity building and pilot projects in 2026/27, followed by a focus on high-visibility town centres and areas requiring community development.

A case study of Southall was presented, detailing the ongoing work on its Economic Vision and Placemaking Delivery Plan. This work, commissioned by the council and developed by Jas Bhalla Works and PRD, aims to create a long-term vision for economic growth and improved public spaces around Southall Station and Merrick Road. The discussion highlighted Southall's unique cultural identity, its micro-business-dominated economy, and challenges such as connectivity issues and inactive streets. Opportunities identified include protecting local businesses, improving public spaces, encouraging sustainable economic growth, and strengthening the social and cultural offer.

Members raised several points regarding the programme's implementation:

• Clarity on Priorities and Investment: Councillors requested more clarity on the specific priority areas, proposed investments, funding sources, and potential investors for the Pride in Place programme.
• Measurable Outcomes: There was a call for clearer objectives and outcomes for projects, with a focus on how success will be measured through visible improvements or economic benefits, such as vacancy rates, footfall, and business survival.
• Communication and Community Involvement: The importance of clear communication with residents about the programme and opportunities for community involvement was emphasised.
• Long-term Maintenance: Concerns were raised about the funding for ongoing maintenance and stewardship of projects, particularly for greening initiatives and children's play areas, as the Pride in Place funding is a one-off capital investment.
• Investor Framework: The panel inquired about the framework for attracting investors and how this process would work, whether through developments or direct engagement with local businesses.
• Co-working Spaces: The potential for rolling out co-working spaces in other areas, similar to those being considered in Southall, was discussed as a way to support local businesses.
• Consultation Fatigue: The issue of consultation fatigue was raised, particularly in areas with multiple ongoing regeneration projects, and the need for clarity and avoiding duplication of efforts was highlighted.

Officers confirmed that Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) would be developed with Public Health colleagues and tailored to individual projects. Funding decisions would be made through a phased approach, considering project readiness, partnership opportunities, and the availability of match funding, with governance arrangements ensuring investment is spread across all seven towns over time. A communications campaign will be launched once project priorities are defined, inviting businesses and community groups to submit proposals.

Terms of Reference and Work Programme 2026/2027

The panel agreed to its Terms of Reference and work programme for 2026/2027. Key items for the upcoming year include a focus on employment and NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) figures, strategic planning, and housing delivery. The panel decided not to appoint co-opted members.

The panel noted that Councillor Bains had been replaced by Councillor Mohan on the panel since the full council meeting.

The meeting was attended by Councillor H Tailor (Chair), Councillor K Mower (Vice-Chair), Councillor S Ahmed, Councillor J Ball, Councillor A Forde, Councillor T Mahmood, Councillor K Mohan, and Councillor K Nagpal. Councillor K Maximova sent apologies, with A Zissimos substituting.