Smethwick's Regeneration Plan receives Government assessment feedback
Since the submission of our Regeneration Plan in November 2025, the Government have been undertaking a review and have now completed the second of three stages of assessment.
The Plan forms part of the Government’s Pride in Place Programme (previously known as the Plan for Neighbourhoods programme), which aims to support long-term regeneration in communities across the country.
The Government panel has provided some initial views on the Plan for Smethwick. The feedback praised the strong community engagement that shaped the Plan and recognised the clear understanding of local challenges and opportunities. This recognition reflects the valuable contributions made by Smethwick residents, community groups and partners throughout the engagement process.
As part of their review, the Government asked for further assurance around the activities described in the Plan, particularly as no specific projects were included at the submission stage. To support this, the Government has asked us to set out the types of activities we would like to see funded, particularly during the first four years of the programme.
In response, we have reviewed the feedback from Smethwick residents and local communities provided in Summer 2025 and identified several activities that reflect local needs and aspirations. These activities help guide future investment but do not guarantee funding. All activity will be subject to a fair and open application process.
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Welcoming the Smethwick Youth Forum
On 5 February, we met with local young people who would like to be part of the Smethwick Youth Forum which will play a part in shaping the future of Smethwick via the Plan for Neighbourhoods.
The opportunity to become a youth representative was launched in September 2025, inviting young people connected to Smethwick to apply and share their interest in helping influence local decisions.
At the meeting on 5 February, the youth representatives had the chance to meet one another as well as some members of the Smethwick Partnership Board.
The Youth Forum aims to work alongside the Smethwick Partnership Board to support engagement with young people and obtain their views, ideas, and priorities and support community events in the future.
We look forward to developing the Youth Forum and to sharing updates.
 We will be hosting community events to share more information about Smethwick’s Regeneration Plan and upcoming funding opportunities. At these events, you will be able to:
- learn more about Smethwick’s 10-year Regeneration Plan
- hear feedback from community engagement carried out in 2025
- find out how the funding application process will work
- ask questions and speak directly with our Board members
We’re in the early stages of planning these events, and dates, venues and booking details will be shared in the coming months. Please keep an eye on our website and your inbox for further information.
Useful links and resources
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