Councillors in Walsall Council have given the green light to the next stage of a substantial £20 million government investment aimed at regenerating Brownhills.
Earlier this year, in March, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) announced Brownhills as one of the towns to be included in its widely acclaimed Pride in Place programme, designed to foster community-led regeneration over the coming decade.
On 22 July, the Walsall Council cabinet formally agreed to authorise the council to act as the accountable body for this phase of the scheme, ensuring effective financial oversight and governance.
READ MORE: Olton children’s care home approved despite police concerns
Councillor Nicky Barker, portfolio holder for regeneration and deputy leader of the council, emphasised the council’s supportive role: “Brownhills has been identified by the government as eligible for up to £20 million of investment over 10 years.
“It is important to recognise that the council does not approve the Pride in Place plan once developed by the community-led board. Instead, the plan will be submitted to the MHCLG for formal assessment and approval.
“The council’s role is to support the process and ensure public funds are managed appropriately rather than direct the programme itself.
“This approach guarantees proper financial administration, governance assurance, and reporting arrangements while respecting the independent community-led model established by the government.”
Brownhills is the sixth area within Walsall to be granted significant government funding, joining Bloxwich and Walsall - both awarded £21.3 million - as well as Willenhall, Darlaston, and Blakenall, each benefiting from £20 million allocations.
Leader of Walsall Council, Councillor Elaine Williams, welcomed the progress: “Brownhills has a significant opportunity to benefit from up to £20 million government investment over the next decade through the Pride in Place programme, helping residents shape improvements that matter most to the community.
“This is an important step towards securing long-term investment for Brownhills and ensuring local people play a central role in shaping the future of the area.”