The government has launched a £5 billion ‘Pride in Place’ programme designed to revive High Streets, restore parks, and boost pubs, leisure centres and community halls across the UK.

As part of its new fund, 169 areas will receive £2 million every year for a decade.

A further 95 areas will receive an immediate £1.5 million to upgrade public spaces with new green spaces, play areas and sports and leisure facilities.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said that communities will also gain new powers to seize boarded-up shops, block "nuisance businesses," and buy "beloved local assets" before they close.

The move forms part of the government's wider Plan for Change, which aims to grow the economy, improve the NHS, deliver safer streets, provide more opportunities to working people, and make Britain a clean energy superpower.

"For too long, people have watched their towns and streets decline – powerless to stop boarded-up shops and neglected parks. That ends now," said prime minister Keir Starmer. "We’re investing in the UK’s future, by backing the true patriots that build our communities up in neighbourhoods across every corner of the country.

"Because it’s people who bring pride, hope and life to our communities.
This is a huge investment, but what matters most is who decides how it’s spent: the neighbours, volunteers and parents who know their communities best – the people with real skin in the game."

The move scales up work already underway in 75 areas.

The up to £5 billion package includes an additional £3.5 billion to roll out the programme to 169 more areas, each receiving up to £20 million over ten years.

Separately, 95 areas receive a share of £150 million capital funding to improve public spaces, parks and high streets.

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