Pride in Place
Could YOU lead Dover's Pride in Place Programme?
We are looking for a passionate and enthusiastic Chair and Board Members to lead Dover’s new 'Pride in Place' programme which will bring up to £20 million of investment to St Radigunds and Buckland wards over the next 10 years.
The board will bring residents, local businesses and community leaders together to:
- identify the projects that matter most to local people
- create a plan for delivery.
We are looking for:
- A Chair who is a strong and positive leader (the Chair is a voluntary role and cannot be an elected representative)
- A Board of people who:
- care deeply about the area and know the local community
- Want to make sure the money make a real difference for our residents
How to apply
Job specifications and how to apply instructions are available on our jobs page:
If you are interested but not sure, please get in touch - we will be happy to talk it through - email prideinplace@dover.gov.uk.
About Dover's Pride in Place Programme
The Pride in Place Programme is the Government's flagship communities programme which empowers local people to shape the future of their neighbourhood. Supported by up to £5 billion in funding over 10 years, the programme represents a long-term strategy to fix the foundations in hundreds of communities across the country.
St Radigunds and Buckland Wards in Dover have been chosen to receive up to £20 million over the next 10 years. The programme prioritises putting local people at the heart of decisions about their neighbourhoods - delivering projects that matter most to local people. Decisions will be made by a neighbourhood board in consultation with the community and with support from the council, MP and central government.
Why the programme is needed
Many neighbourhoods face challenges such as lack of community buildings, failing high streets and public spaces that no longer meet current local needs. These issues can affect wellbeing, opportunity and pride in place.
Pride in Place will address the challenges by:
- Providing long-term investment rather than short-term fixes
- Strengthening local connections and shared spaces
- Giving communities a stronger voice over decisions
- Supporting neighbourhoods that need investment the most
What the funding can be used for
Funding can be used for a range of local priorities, including:
- Community buildings and shared spaces
- Green spaces and play areas
- Public improvements such as pavements, lighting and seating
- High street improvements
- Cultural, social and community activities
Full list of possible projects ».
63% of the funding must be spent on 'capital projects' eg physical improvements.
Neighbourhood Board
Our Neighbourhood Board will:
- Be led by a Chair and representatives who have a strong connection to the area
- Lead local engagement and consultation
- Identify priority projects based on community feedback
- Produce a 'Pride in Place Plan' setting out how the money will be spent
- Oversee delivery and report progress on agreed projects
If you would like to be involved, please email us - prideinplace@dover.gov.uk - and tell us about your connection to the area.
What area is covered?
We are currently clarifyng the exact area covered with the Government and will produce a map shortly.
Who decides how the funding is spent?
Funding decisions will be made by the Neighbourhood Board, informed by their engagement with residents. Support will be provided by Dover District Council and our MP, Mike Tapp.
Does this replace existing council funding?
No. Pride in Place funding is additional to existing council budgets and is specifically allocated for community‑led neighbourhood improvement. It cannot be used for other purposes.
How can residents get involved?
Residents will be able to take part through engagement events and consultations. If you would like to be involved in the Neighbourhood Board please email us - prideinplace@dover.gov.uk - and tell us about your connection to the area.
Timeline for implementing the Pride in Place programme
- Early 2026 – Initial funding released to support community engagement and establish Neighbourhood Boards
- April 2026 – Programme delivery funding begins
Year 1 Revenue funding:
- 50% paid at the start of the 2026/27 financial year
- 50% paid following approval of the Pride in Place Plan
Capital funding:
- Paid at the start of the 2026/27 financial year
Key milestones:
- 17 July 2026 – Boards confirm final membership and any proposed boundary changes
- Autumn 2026 – Government review of Board membership and boundaries
- 28 November 2026 – Pride in Place Plans submitted for approval
- April 2027 – First full annual return submitted
Full details on the Pride in Place Programme (Gov.uk) »
Register for email updates on the Pride in Place Programme »
Contact
Email the Pride in Place officer: prideinplace@dover.gov.uk.