Bilston Carnival set for return as part of major Pride in Place investment for town

The announcement of the carnival, which is part of a wider package of events driven by the town’s Pride in Place Regeneration Programme, comes as Wolverhampton council’s Cabinet is due to consider a major package of funding for Bilston on February 18.

A ten-year vision and four-year investment plan have been developed following engagement and consultation with more than 1,000 local people and approval by the community-led Pride in Place Bilston Board.

It will be backed by £20million of Government funding over the next decade.

Feedback from residents to inform the ten-year vision, highlighted the importance of a cleaner, safer, vibrant town, active involvement from young people particularly in apprenticeships and jobs, revitalised high street and markets, inclusive community spaces and the preservation of heritage and improved infrastructure.

Bilston Carnival was last staged in 2008 and plans for its return are being driven by popular demand from the local community, with full details of the carnival set to be released in the coming months.

Councillor Stephen Simkins, Leader of Wolverhampton Council and member of the Bilston Board, said: "The Pride in Place Programme is not just a list of projects, it is a long-term commitment to Bilston’s people, shaped locally and backed by major investment.

“Over the next decade, residents will see improvements in community facilities, safer public spaces, upgraded high streets, revitalised parks and new opportunities for young people.

“The return of Bilston Carnival in 2026 is a powerful symbol of what this programme is all about: community pride, connection and celebration.

“With wider regeneration schemes progressing across the town, such as the new-look market, High Street Link and new Health & Wellbeing Facility - together, we can build a thriving, inclusive and empowered Bilston for generations to come.”

Josie Kelly, Chair of the Bilston Board, said: "Bilston’s Pride in Place Programme shows what happens when a town shapes its own future.

“This is a community‑led plan through and through - built from months of local conversations and rooted in what people told us matters most: feeling safer, feeling proud, and seeing Bilston thrive again.

“The return of Bilston Carnival in summer 2026 is a symbol of that renewed confidence. It represents not just a single event, but a community stepping forward together."

Pamela Cole-Hudson, Bilston Board’s Voluntary, Community, Arts & Culture Representative, said: "Bilston’s identity has always been shaped by creativity, the arts, heritage and community spirit. The Pride in Place Programme recognises this and the huge value culture plays in our wellbeing.

“The investment in a revitalised Bilston events programme as well as heritage trails, localised wayfinding and signage is an exciting turning point. 

"The return of the Carnival in 2026 will be a flagship moment and a canvas for local artists, performers and community groups to come together to showcase and celebrate the best of Bilston."

Julie Emery, Bilston Market’s Board Representative, said: “Bilston Market has always been at the heart of the town, and traders are excited to see investment that improves both the look and feel of our public spaces.

“Cleaner streets and more footfall are good for business and good for the community. 

"The return of Bilston’s Carnival, especially if it brings people past the market, reconnects us with traditions that many families remember fondly."

Pat McFadden, MP for Wolverhampton South East, said: “Pride in Place Bilston is about backing our town and the people who call it home. 

"This £20 million, 10-year Labour Government investment will help make Bilston safer, more vibrant and full of opportunity, giving local communities a real say in shaping their future. 

"From the return of Bilston Carnival in 2026 to continued investment in transport, housing and our town centre, this programme shows what we can achieve when we work together to build a Bilston we can be proud of.”

Councillor Linda Leach, Bilston North and member of the Bilston Board, said: "Local people told us clearly what they want for the next ten years, and this programme reflects those priorities of safer streets, cleaner neighbourhoods, more support for young people, and a town centre we can all be proud of.

“Our youngsters especially deserve places where they can grow, create and feel they belong.

"Bringing back the Bilston Carnival in 2026 will help rebuild that sense of togetherness, connecting generations and celebrating what makes this town special. 

"When you add this to the other major capital projects already underway in Bilston, you can see a picture forming of a stronger, more vibrant place by 2036."