Lower Edmonton board to spend £20m on neighbourhood projects

A new community board in Lower Edmonton has begun the process of allocating £20 million in government funding, aiming to place residents at the forefront of decision-making for local improvements. The Lower Edmonton South Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board will oversee the distribution of this money over a ten-year period.

Funding details and programme aims

Both Lower Edmonton and Enfield Wash were designated in March as part of the national Pride in Place Programme, which provides £20 million to 40 areas across the country. Enfield is one of three London boroughs with two areas selected for this initiative. The funding will be made available at a rate of £2 million annually until 2036. The programme's objective is to invest in local areas and foster civic pride, with a focus on community-led development. Councillor Siddo Dwyer stated that the funding is a 'once in a-generation opportunity' to invest in the public realm, create jobs, and develop skills.

Board members and resident engagement

Vivienne Aiyela, a lifelong resident with experience in regeneration and social value, has been appointed as the chair of the Lower Edmonton board. The 14-strong board includes local MP Kate Osamor, Councillor Siddo Dwyer, police officer Zeeshaan Rana, and other representatives from community groups and professional fields. The board's initial phase will concentrate on listening to residents to understand their priorities and desired changes for the neighbourhood. Vivienne Aiyela stated that the board will make efforts to hear from often-overlooked voices and will report back on how resident contributions influence decisions.

Kate Osamor, MP for Edmonton and Winchmore Hill, commented that the programme presents a significant opportunity and that the priority is to listen to residents and develop a shared vision. She added that the board's diverse experience provides a strong foundation for this work.

Upcoming community event

Residents will have an opportunity to engage with the board at a 'Community Connect' event scheduled for October 22nd at The Living Room Library, located on Fore Street. The event will run from 9am to 5pm, providing a chance for people to learn more about the Pride in Place programme and how they can get involved. The board is due to finalise its ten-year plan for the local area in February next year. Updates and meeting minutes will be made publicly available on a dedicated Enfield Council webpage.