The UK Government has announced that nine neighbourhoods across Wales will receive up to £20 million each as part of the Pride in Place Programme, aiming to restore local pride and unlock new opportunities for residents. The initiative, first announced in September 2025, allocates £180 million over 10 years to support regeneration projects in areas that can benefit most. This funding empowers communities to address issues such as graffiti removal, preservation of local institutions, and tackling anti-social behaviour, with local people playing a central role in deciding how the money is spent.
In addition to the neighbourhood-specific funding, all local authorities in Wales will receive a share of £34.5 million in capital investment to enhance public spaces. This includes improvements to bus shelters, reopening park toilets, increasing waste management infrastructure, and revitalising leisure centres. The designated neighbourhoods include Sirhowy Valley in Blaenau Gwent, Bargoed, Aberbargoed and New Tredegar in Caerphilly, Ely & Caerau in Cardiff, Llanelli in Carmarthenshire, Llandudno in Conwy, Upper Afan Valley in Neath Port Talbot, Newport city centre, Rhondda Fach in Rhondda Cynon Taf, and High Street and Dyfatty in Swansea.
Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens emphasized that the funding gives local communities control over investment decisions, supporting the creation of stronger, more thriving neighbourhoods. Community representatives, through Neighbourhood Boards, will determine the precise allocation of the funding, starting from April 2026. Potential projects include revitalising high streets, preserving local heritage, creating housing, boosting employment and skills, enhancing health and well-being, developing transport links, expanding educational opportunities, and improving safety and security, all aimed at fostering long-term sustainable growth and prosperity in these areas.
