Back in April, I shared the exciting news that Luton would receive £20 million through the Government’s Pride in Place programme. Since then, work has been underway behind the scenes to put the foundations in place for the next decade of investment in the neighbourhood.
I am delighted to announce that Fiona Wiseman has been appointed as Chair of the Luton Pride in Place programme.
Fiona lives in Luton and is someone who knows the community exceptionally well. Her leadership of the widely praised Big Local programme and her experience as a teacher at Luton Primary School, among many other achievements, made her an outstanding candidate for the role, and one we are fortunate to have appointed.
Alongside Fiona, ward councillor Jo and I are now supporting the recruitment of the programme Board, which will play a central role in deciding how the £20 million investment is spent over the next ten years. We’re looking for people with a genuine connection to Luton, trusted relationships within the community, and the skills, knowledge or lived experience that can help the Board succeed.
The Board itself will be relatively small, likely comprising around eight members, so competition for places is expected to be strong. However, while those appointments are important, the programme’s success will not be determined by the Board alone. Every resident, faith group, institution and interested stakeholder has an equally important role to play in shaping the future of Luton.
This cannot be a programme delivered in isolation, nor can it be something done to Luton. It must be something built by and with Luton, drawing on the experience, insight and ambition that already exists within the Luton community.
If you feel you have the skills, experience or lived experience to help shape the future of Luton, I would strongly encourage you to consider applying.
Apply here: Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board Member
