A Vision for South Telford
Reverend Jo Farnworth, the newly appointed independent chair of a board tasked with transforming South Telford, has expressed her ambition to make the area “a place where people want to live – and seek to live.” Her appointment marks the beginning of a decade-long project aimed at revitalizing the region. The initiative, backed by a £20 million investment from the government’s Pride in Place program, will be complemented by an additional £10 million from Telford and Wrekin Council.
Residents who are passionate about improving the areas of Woodside, Brookside, and Sutton Hill are encouraged to apply for positions on the board. These neighborhoods face significant challenges, including high levels of deprivation in income, education, and crime, as highlighted by government data from 2025.
“I already see communities where many people are proud to live, but who recognize that there are ways in which their lives could be better,” said Mrs. Farnworth, the Rector of Central Telford Parish. She emphasized the importance of making a tangible difference in the lives of residents, particularly those who may feel they have no choice but to live in the area due to financial constraints.
Farnworth, who spent nearly three decades working with disadvantaged communities in Greater Manchester before moving to Telford in 2022, was appointed in March by Telford and Wrekin Council for her extensive experience in community regeneration. Her role on the board is voluntary, meaning she will not receive a salary.
Community Involvement and Local Leadership
The team involved in the project, including Telford’s Labour MP Shaun Davies, has emphasized that all ideas will be considered, and residents will ultimately decide how the funds are allocated. Applications to join the board can be submitted through the Telford and Wrekin Council website. Additionally, forms will be available at community centers starting from Wednesday.
Those selected for the board will not receive a salary, but expenses such as childcare and transportation costs may be covered to ensure accessibility for all participants. The deadline for applications is 25 May.
Davies, who served as leader of Telford and Wrekin Council until he entered parliament in 2024, highlighted the importance of local voices in shaping the future of the neighborhoods. “Pride in Place is about giving residents a real voice in shaping the future of their neighborhoods,” he stated. He acknowledged that while the funding is limited, the council is working with organizations such as pension funds and charities to secure additional support.
Expanding the Initiative
The Pride in Place initiative has been described as a “game-changer” for communities across the region. As part of this effort, a community bus is visiting residents as part of a trial, providing a means for individuals to access essential services and participate in local activities. A new youth club is also being established to offer teens a safe space to meet and engage in positive activities.
For more information about the Pride in Place funding, interested individuals can visit the official government website. This initiative aims to empower communities by investing in local projects that address key issues and improve quality of life.
Residents are encouraged to get involved, share their perspectives, and help shape the future of their neighborhoods. The success of this project will depend on the active participation of the community, ensuring that the needs and aspirations of all residents are taken into account.
