A new Neighbourhood Board has been launched to help shape the future of Gainsborough, giving residents a strong voice and supporting long term improvements that really matter to them.
The board has been set up as part of the government’s Pride in Place programme, a 10 year commitment that will see £20 million invested in the town, directed by local priorities, local insight and local leadership.
Sir Edward Leigh MP confirmed the appointment of the new Pride in Place Co Chairs for Gainsborough; Steve Gelder MBE and Ben Rollett, both of whom bring extensive experience and strong local knowledge.
Steve, Chief Executive Officer of Gelder Group, was born and raised in the town and has a long background in community development and partnership working. He has a particular focus on neighbourhood based projects and building strong relationships between organisations and residents.
Ben, Chief Executive Officer at Lincolnshire Community and Voluntary Partnership, brings expertise in strategic planning and place based working. He helps to shape long term improvements that deliver real, lasting benefits for local people.
Together, Steve and Ben will steer the board’s work towards creating cleaner, safer and greener neighbourhoods, while encouraging a sense of pride across the area.
In a joint statement, they said: “We are pleased to take on the role of Co Chairs. Our neighbourhoods matter deeply to the people who live in them, and the Pride in Place approach gives us a real opportunity to deliver improvements that genuinely reflect local priorities. We are looking forward to working closely with residents and partners to help build strong, vibrant places that everyone can be proud of.”
At the heart of its work will be community involvement, making sure people who live and work in Gainsborough have real opportunities to influence plans, shape priorities and take pride in their neighbourhoods.
The Neighbourhood Board will:
- Bring together, residents, community groups and partners to coordinate local action
- Identify community needs, challenges and opportunities
- Oversee local projects and track their progress
- Encourage community involvement and build civic pride
- Support investment in public spaces, facilities and local assets
The board’s first meeting took place on Friday 24th April, which will then see the announcement of all board members who will begin developing an action plan and identifying early priorities.
How people can get involved
The Co Chairs will work alongside Sir Edward Leigh MP, the council and local community organisations to:
- Establish the Neighbourhood Board, bringing together residents, groups and partners
- Develop a 10 year investment plan, shaped through engagement with local people
- Ensure local people remain central to decision making, reflecting the programme’s commitment to community led leadership
There will be a range of opportunities for residents, businesses, community organisations and grassroots groups to get involved by taking part in wider engagement activities that help shape the future of Gainsborough.
To find out more about the programme or to get involved in the early consultation visit www.west-lindsey.gov.uk/communities-safety/grants-funding/pride-place-gainsborough-west.