The Pride in Place Programme (PiPP) Board for Crook North/Tow Law met to discuss the progress of the programme, including engagement with the local community and the allocation of 'quick win' funding. The board also reviewed the programme's boundary and considered next steps for developing a long-term investment plan.

Programme Update and Engagement

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a programme update, which included details on the capacity funding received and ongoing efforts to recruit new board members. The board was informed about the launch of the Pride in Place web page and an online survey, alongside the distribution of leaflets with QR codes. The Quick wins application form had also been distributed across the area.

Engagement sessions had been carried out in various locations, including Tow Law Community Centre, Tow Law Football Club, Howden-le-Wear Village Hall, Crook Football Club, and Wolsingham Comprehensive School. Feedback from these sessions highlighted key priorities for residents, including a desire for a safer, cleaner, and more active community, improvements to local infrastructure, regeneration of neglected sites, better facilities, and more opportunities for community participation. Concerns about anti-social behaviour, derelict buildings, and transport connectivity were also prominent.

The report indicated that 684 participants had provided comments so far. A targeted survey commissioned by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) also revealed similar themes. The board was informed that the programme aims to develop a vision and a four-year investment plan to be submitted to the government by 28 November 2026.

'Quick Wins' Projects and Funding

The board considered 'quick win' projects that had been put forward for funding. These included the Tow Law community centre fitting of screens, Fir Tree planters and flowerbeds, holiday trips for young people, the Crook Winter Light Parade, a community defibrillator in Tow Law, support for The Newmarket Sunday League Football Team, and the Tow Law Flower Festival. The report noted that the budget for quick wins included £117,604 in capital funding and £135,000 in revenue funding. The board was recommended to note the progress made on the 'Quick Win' application process.

Boundary Review

The board discussed the boundary for the Crook North/Tow Law Pride in Place programme. Members noted that some individuals had queried why certain areas were not included. The Chair explained that the boundary was determined by government data, but those outside the designated area would still benefit from the programme. It was suggested that people with projects slightly outside the boundary be invited to come forward, and that communications would reflect this to ensure inclusivity. The board discussed proposed boundary changes.

Next Steps and Future Plans

The meeting agenda included a discussion on the next steps for the programme. This focused on reviewing 'quick win' applications and defining the vision for Crook North/Tow Law. The board was also to consider training dates and facilitation, progress with procurement for an events call-off contract, and the presentation of a draft submission of the 10-year vision and Pride in Place Plan by October 2026, with the final submission to MHCLG by 28 November 2026.

The Pride in Place Programme is a £5 billion government initiative aimed at supporting community-focused regeneration. The Crook North/Tow Law area, as part of Phase 2, is set to receive up to £20 million in funding over 10 years, linked to an investment plan comprising 63% capital and 37% revenue funding. The programme seeks to empower local people to shape their neighbourhood's future.

The board also discussed the potential for public access to presentations and agreed to discuss this with the Democratic Services team.