(Image: Sunderland City Council)
Residents have just one month left to help shape how £40 million of funding will be spent in their Sunderland communities.
People living in Hendon, Docks, the East End, Thorney Close, Plains Farm, Springwell and Grindon can share their views on how the money - up to £20 million for each area - should be invested over the next decade.
The Thorney Close, Plains Farm and Springwell area of the city where people are also being asked to say how they would like to see £20m funding awarded under the Government's Pride in Place programme, invested in their community. (Image: Sunderland City Council)
The funding comes from the Government’s Pride in Place programme, aimed at supporting long-term improvements in areas of greatest need.
It focuses on building thriving places, strengthening communities and ensuring residents’ voices are central to decision-making.
Debra Walker, chair of the Hendon, Docks and the East End Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board, said: "We'd like to thank everyone who has come forward over the summer to tell us what's important to them and share their ideas for improving the area.
"I'd also encourage anyone who hasn't had the chance to share their views yet, to do so before the consultation closes on 31 October.
"This is all about helping us to get a better understanding of what would make a real difference for residents and help improve their lives and those of their families."
Debra Walker, Chair of the Hendon, Docks and the East End Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board (Image: Sunderland City Council)
Residents can submit their feedback through designated digital engagement platforms.
Throughout the summer, project teams have been speaking with people in the community to gather ideas and understand local priorities.
Voluntary organisations have also been engaging with groups to ensure a wide range of voices are heard.
Andrea Walters, chair of the Thorney Close, Plains Farm and Springwell Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board, said: "We really don't want to see anyone miss out on this is fantastic opportunity to tell us how they would like to see this funding invested in their area.
"Pride in Place is all about putting power back into the hands of local communities and delivering meaningful improvements.
"So I’d encourage everyone who hasn't already done so to have their say before the end of October.
"It's really easy to do and important too, as what residents tell us will help shape future priorities and guide investment opportunities over the next 10 years."
Andrea Walters, Chair of the Thorney Close, Plains Farm and Springwell Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board (Image: Sunderland City Council)
Independent Neighbourhood Boards, made up of residents, community organisations, businesses and public partners, will help steer the programme and ensure investment decisions reflect local needs.
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Following the consultation, the boards will work with Sunderland City Council to develop long-term Pride in Place plans for each area.
These plans will be submitted to the Government early next year, with projects set to begin in late 2026 or 2027.
The funding can support a wide range of improvements, including community facilities, regeneration schemes and initiatives around education, health and employment.