Council Accepts £20m for Deprived Areas
Gateshead Council has officially accepted £20 million in central government funding for the Beacon Lough and Wrekenton areas, which have been identified as 'doubly disadvantaged' due to high levels of deprivation and weak social infrastructure such as community spaces and services.
The funding, part of the government's Pride in Place programme, will be spread over 10 years. In the immediate term, the council has agreed to accept £537,000 to cover the period from 2025 to 2027.
Local Decision-Making Power
According to the council's report, the Pride in Place funding 'will put decision-making power in the hands of local people, offers the flexibility to respond to local needs and opportunities, and provides long-term funding so communities can put plans together to help rebuild and transform their neighbourhoods.'
The projects eligible for funding will be determined by the Neighbourhood Board, which includes community members from educational and social care backgrounds, Labour MP Mark Ferguson, and Reform UK councillor for High Fell, Arthur Boylin.
Next Steps and National Context
The council must submit a Pride in Place Plan to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) by November 2026. The board will need to provide a detailed investment plan for the first four years, outlining projects and expected improvements.
Nationally, around 300 places have been selected for Pride in Place funding, with a total allocation of £5 billion.
