Lower Edmonton secures £20m 'Pride in Place' funding

Lower Edmonton ward has secured £20 million in government 'Pride in Place' funding, a sum described by local Labour councillor Siddo Dwyer as a "generational opportunity" to improve the area. The investment is intended to enhance the public realm, create jobs, and develop new skills within the community.

Councillor Dwyer, who was elected in May for the Lower Edmonton ward, has been actively engaging with residents since taking office. He has held ward surgeries and community coffee mornings, and met with local police. He noted that while police report a decrease in crime, he remains focused on understanding victims' experiences.

Addressing Ward Challenges

Dwyer highlighted that 49% of residents in Lower Edmonton ward are on universal credit, a statistic he attributes to national government policies. He has been working to support residents with various issues, including special needs provision for children, financial advice for pensioners, and securing social care assessments. He has also raised concerns with council departments regarding issues such as pavement maintenance, parking management, and waste collection.

In July, Councillor Dwyer voted in favour of Labour's initiative for stricter regulations on Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMOs), which passed unanimously at the civic centre. The proposal includes using community infrastructure levy funds from developers to support areas affected by HMO developments and calls for stronger government powers to regulate them.

Future Plans for Funding

Details regarding the Lower Edmonton 'Pride in Place' neighbourhood board and the selection process are expected in September. Councillor Dwyer has stated his commitment to ensuring that resident feedback directly influences how the £20 million is allocated. He also continues to address casework concerning leasehold charges, education, and housing affordability.