The Pride in Place Programme (PiPP) Board (Peterlee East) met on Friday 19 June 2026 to discuss the progress of the programme, including updates on engagement activities and proposed boundary changes. The board was scheduled to review the governance arrangements and consider the next steps for the programme's development.

Programme Update and Governance

The board was set to receive an update on the Pride in Place Programme (PiPP), a £5 billion government initiative aimed at supporting long-term community-focused regeneration across Great Britain. Durham County Council is participating in Phase 2 of the programme, with East Peterlee selected to receive up to £20 million in funding over 10 years. This funding is linked to the Pride in Place Investment Plan, which is comprised of 63% capital funding and 37% revenue funding. The programme's objective is to empower local people to shape their neighbourhoods and support transformative local projects, focusing on three strategic objectives: building stronger communities, creating thriving places, and enabling people to take back control.

The report pack indicated that the board would discuss the governance arrangements for the programme, which were intended to ensure compliance with established guidance. This included reviewing the terms of reference for the Peterlee East Neighbourhood Board, which outlines roles and responsibilities, a code of conduct for board members, and decision-making processes. The board was also scheduled to consider the appointment of a Chair and board members, with a majority of members required to live or work within the Peterlee East boundary to ensure a resident-led approach.

Stakeholder Engagement and Boundary Review

Significant emphasis was placed on stakeholder engagement, with a report detailing various sessions held with residents, community groups, and local schools. Feedback from these sessions highlighted a strong sense of community and pride in the area, alongside concerns about long-term decline, particularly within the town centre, and issues related to crime and anti-social behaviour. The report also noted feedback regarding the lack of provision for young people, housing quality, environmental conditions, and infrastructure.

A key item for discussion was the proposed revision of the programme's boundary. The report pack included a revised boundary map for consideration, with a request submitted to assess the potential population increase arising from these changes. The board was expected to discuss the current programme boundary and note that areas outside the formal boundary might still benefit from investment. The inclusion of Peterlee Town Centre within the boundary was supported due to clear community feedback and potential wider benefits, with concerns raised about its current condition and management. The report also mentioned the potential consideration of Seaside Lane in Easington Colliery and the exploration of minor boundary amendments where streets have been split.

Next Steps and Funding

The board was scheduled to review the next steps for the Pride in Place Programme, which included the confirmation of Neighbourhood Board membership and any proposals to alter the boundary by 17 July 2026. A draft programme submission was due by October 2026, with the final Vision and Pride in Place Plan to be submitted to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) by 28 November 2026.

Updates on funding received to date were also on the agenda. The council, acting as the accountable body, had received capacity funding to support local community engagement and the establishment of the board. This funding was intended to support engagement activities, including events and promotional materials, and to facilitate the recruitment of a dedicated Community and Economic Development Lead Officer. The programme aims to leverage existing and new private, public, and philanthropic funding streams to maximise benefits beyond the 10-year programme.

Other Business

The meeting agenda also included items such as the Chair's Welcome and Introductions, the minutes of the previous board meeting held on 17 April 2026, and declarations of interest. The board was also scheduled to discuss Any other business and the date and time of the next meeting.