Have your say in how £20m is spent to transform this part of Preston

Residents of Ribbleton are being asked how they think £20m of government cash should be spent transforming the place where they live.

The area - which includes Moor Nook and Grange - was chosen last year as one of 169 nationwide that will receive £2m every year for the next decade from the new Pride in Place Fund.

It is one of just six “overlooked” communities in Lancashire that was selected for the windfall - and locals now have the chance to influence the way in which it is used.

They have been invited to complete a survey to help the newly-created neighbourhood board responsible for developing a 10-year plan for Ribbleton "understand what matters most” to them.

The board says the responses will “help shape plans for improving local spaces, safety, and opportunities”.

Residents’ opinions are being sought on how they feel about living in Ribbleton and whether there are enough spaces to socialise - as well as their general thoughts and suggestions.

Locals can also apply to join the board, with a promise that their role at this early stage will “help set the direction, the culture and the values [of the organisation] for years to come”.

No prior experience on a board is required, because “local knowledge and care for the area” are the most important criteria for what are unpaid posts.

In a statement, the board said: “We welcome interest from people of all ages, backgrounds and experiences. This includes people who may not usually put themselves forward for roles like this, people with disabilities, caring responsibilities and young people.

“We want a resident-led board with strong local connections and a mix of skills.

“Being on the board involves regularly attending meetings to help shape priorities, listen to local voices, and take part in fair and open decision-making about projects and funding.

“No one person needs to cover everything - it’s about the group acting in the best interests of the whole community.”

Last month, Grange Primary School headteacher Cheryl Taylor was appointed by Preston MP Sir Mark Hendrick and Ribbleton ward city councillor Pat Varty to chair the board.

Miss Taylor - who will continue as co-head of the school, said she was “delighted” to be involved, adding: “Grange has been my community for many years, and it has shaped my commitment to improving opportunities for local people.

“However, I am very clear that this role is about serving the whole of Ribbleton ward. The Pride in Place programme represents a genuinely new way of working, and I am really looking forward to connecting with residents from across the ward, listening to their priorities and making decisions together to ensure this investment delivers real, lasting benefits for everyone."

Sir Mark Hendrick - who, along with Cllr CVary is also a founding board member - said Cheryl Taylor “has the skills, vision and leadership experience to head a successful board, but, more importantly, she is committed to Ribbleton, its residents and this programme”.

The deadline for expressing an interest in joining the board is 30th June and applications can be made here.