Decision-making in local hands: Speke East names Pride in Place Chair

The first Chair of a Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board in Liverpool has been appointed.

The Reverend Philip Saltmarsh will take the up the position for Speke East and bring together a team of community representatives and other local stakeholders who will be responsible for creating a 10-year plan for the area. 

A local resident and the Rector of Speke, Reverend Saltmarsh said: “I’m honoured to take on the role of Chair of the East Speke Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board. This is an exciting opportunity to bring the community together around a shared ambition. What makes Pride in Place different to previous initiatives is that it puts decision-making in the hands of local people.”

“I’m committed to making sure every voice is heard and that we build on the diversity, creativity and pride that already exists in our area. I look forward to working with residents, partners and local organisations and with other Board members, once appointed, to deliver for Speke East. Together we can deliver meaningful and lasting impact.”

The 10-year vision for Speke East will be supported by £20million of funding and support from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, and must focus on building stronger communities, thriving places and empowering residents to have a say over the future of their community.

Reverend Saltmarsh will be joined on the Speke East Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board by the Rt Hon Maria Eagle, Member of Parliament for Liverpool Garston.

Maria Eagle said: “I’m very pleased to welcome Phil as the Chair of the East Speke Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board. As a local resident and the Rector of St Aidan’s with All Saints Church, Phil is deeply rooted in the community and is a great example of what Pride in Place is all about.”

“I know that Phil will ensure that the programme is delivered in the true spirit in which it is intended, putting residents’ priorities at the heart of decision making and involving all corners of the community as the programme progresses. This is an exciting opportunity and I’m really looking forward to working with Phil and the wider board, to ensure we make the most of it.”

Speke East is one four Pride in Place areas within the city of Liverpool; Everton East, Fairfield West and Newsham Park and Norris Green East will also create Pride in Place Neighbourhood Boards and receive a £20million cash injection to bring their 10-year plan to life. 

Liverpool City Council will be supporting the programme and will act as the accountable body, working in partnership with each Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board.

Further details on the appointment of fellow Chairs and their accompanying boards will be available in due course.