The Pride in Place Programme (PiPP) Board for Peterlee East is scheduled to meet on Friday 19 June 2026. The meeting's agenda includes a significant update on the programme's progress, discussions regarding the project's geographical boundaries, and a review of approved interventions.

Programme Update and Boundary Discussions

A key focus of the meeting will be a comprehensive update on the Pride in Place Programme (PiPP) in Peterlee East. This initiative, part of a £5 billion government scheme to support community-focused regeneration, aims to empower local neighbourhoods. The Peterlee East area is set to receive up to £20 million in funding over the next decade, linked to a Pride in Place Investment Plan. The programme's strategic objectives are to build stronger communities, create thriving places, and empower residents to take back control of their areas.

The board will be presented with information on the engagement activities that have taken place, including feedback from residents, community groups, and local schools. Consultation responses highlight a strong sense of community and pride in the area, with residents valuing its natural environment and local facilities. However, concerns have also been raised regarding the long-term decline and underinvestment in the town centre, issues of crime and anti-social behaviour, and a lack of provision for young people.

A significant item for discussion will be the programme's boundary. The report pack indicates that early community engagement identified the town centre as a key area of concern, and members have supported its inclusion within the programme boundary. Discussions are also scheduled regarding the potential inclusion of Seaside Lane in Easington Colliery, which is viewed by some as the town centre, and the possibility of minor boundary amendments where streets have been divided. The board is expected to consider a revised boundary map and a formal request to include Peterlee Town Centre within the programme's scope.

Approved Interventions

The meeting will also cover the approved intervention themes for the Pride in Place Programme. These themes are designed to be flexible and encompass a broad range of activities that the board can consider to meet community needs. The intervention categories include:

• Regeneration, high streets, and heritage
• Housing
• Work, productivity, and skills
• Cohesion
• Community Power
• Health and wellbeing
• Transport
• Safety and security
• Education and opportunity

The board will be reviewing these themes as part of the process to co-create a 10-year Vision and Pride in Place Plan for Peterlee East, which must be submitted to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) by 28 November 2026.

Next Steps

The board will also be discussing the next steps for the programme. This includes confirming the Neighbourhood Board membership and any proposed boundary alterations to MHCLG by 17 July 2026. A draft submission of the 10-year vision and Pride in Place Plan is expected to be presented to the board by October 2026, with the final submission due by 28 November 2026. Continued community engagement activity is also planned.

The Pride in Place Programme is a national initiative, with Durham County Council acting as the accountable body for the funds. The programme aims to empower local people to shape the future of their neighbourhoods and support transformative local projects. The funding is linked to the Pride in Place Investment Plan, which comprises 63% capital funding and 37% revenue funding. Capacity funding has been received to support local community engagement and the establishment of the board.