Political opinion: Fighting for investment in Low Hill and Wolverhampton
I’ve written in the Express and Star before about the urgent need to invest in our most disadvantaged neighbourhoods and fight for the heart of our communities. Since being elected, I have raised this at the highest levels of government time and again, so I am delighted to have now secured £20 million for Low Hill — £2 million every year for a decade.
When we enter Parliament, we take on a huge responsibility: to improve people’s lives across the areas we represent. That mission matters everywhere, but it is especially vital in communities that have long faced challenges in housing, education, work, and healthcare.
For some places in our city, people feel left behind, and they feel let down. This cannot continue.
I called for a debate in Parliament about our neighbourhoods, and about how we can fight for their renewal. It was tough to discuss, and uncomfortable to hear, but we all agreed. Our neighbourhoods, wherever we are in the country aren’t working, as community had not just lost its meaning, but children had nowhere to go, and adults could not access jobs.
So, this Government is trying something different, directly putting the fate of neighbourhoods directly into the hands of the community. This approach means that Low Hill will see a direct award of £2 million a year for the next ten years which can be spent on local priorities which really matter for local people.
Since being elected, I have been leading debated, lobbying ministers, and pressing the Treasury at every single opportunity to ensure that our area is included in their plans. I’ve raised it continuously in Parliament, explaining why places like Low Hill deserve and need support.
The best part about the Plan for Neighbourhoods is that nobody is going to tell us how it has to be spent. No civil servants in Whitehall or politicians in London. Instead, a Community Board will be set up, with an independent chair, filled not just with the usual suspects, but with the local community. Because who knows best about what Low Hill needs other than the residents themselves.
Will it be tackling crime and anti-social behaviour? Creating new play areas and green spaces? Backing local jobs and training? Supporting community centres and youth services?
Whatever your priorities are, that’s what matters, and I cannot wait to hear them. This investment is a once in a generation opportunity for Low Hill, and together we can rebuild pride in our neighbourhood, tackle those long standing problems, and give the next generation the opportunities they deserve.
I am proud that Labour is in government and delivering for places like ours. Too many communities have been neglected for too long. Now, with this investment, we are starting to put that right.
As the time approaches, we will be advertising widely, and sharing the news about this vital fund, and the way it can change lives for good.
Sureena Brackenridge MP
