Lancashire towns to share £319m Pride in Place investment

Sunday, 22 March 2026 06:07

By Shaun Moore

Blackpool, Preston and Blackburn with Darwen are set to benefit from a share of a £319M government investment aimed at transforming communities.

The Pride in Place funding will help revive high streets and create new community spaces such as homes, health services and libraries.

Some areas will also receive funding for improved children’s play areas in some of the country’s most deprived neighbourhoods.

Local businesses and other organisations will be encouraged to get involved, with locations confirmed in due course.

Funding will also support a summer of activity on high streets this year, with innovative measures to boost footfall — just as areas are set to benefit from major culture and sporting events including the World Cup.

Communities Secretary Steve Reed said: People have watched their communities decline for too long, with little say over how they’re run. This government is determined to change that — giving communities the tools, the funding and the power they need to rebuild.

From new playgrounds to reimagined high streets, we’re putting power back in people’s hands. People across the country will see and feel the difference this investment makes, restoring pride in local areas.”