Announcing Co-Chairs for Bentilee and Ubberley Pride in Place
Two people have been appointed to lead a new neighbourhood board responsible for overseeing £20m investment in Bentilee and Ubberley.
Bentilee and Ubberley is one of three neighbourhoods across Stoke-on-Trent which has been selected by Government for Pride in Place support. This will see £20m spent in the area over the next 10 years – approximately £2m each years.
Amy Harris, who lives with her family in Bentilee and works as a Data Analytics and Insights Manager at Synectics Solutions, has been appointed as Co-Chair.
She will be joined by Simon French, who has worked as Principal of Discovery Academy before becoming Chief Executive Officer and Executive Principal of Alpha Academies Trust.
Amy said: “Our ambition is to give all 11,000-plus residents a genuine opportunity to contribute. We have already had some wonderful conversations with residents about what they value in the neighbourhood, what they would like to see change and what should be protected for future generations.
“As a Bentilee resident, I am excited to work alongside my neighbours, local organisations and fellow board members to turn those ideas into a shared plan and lasting improvements for the place we call home.”
Simon said: “The Pride in Place programme is a valuable opportunity to bring partners together in a more co-ordinated way and help us to make lasting, positive change.”
Their appointment as Co-Chairs of Bentilee and Ubberley Pride in Place Neighbourhood Boards has been welcomed by Stoke-on-Trent Central MP Gareth Snell.
Gareth said: “Amy is passionate about creating opportunities for residents and working to support the future of Bentilee and Ubberley. She understands the importance of listening to local voices and translating community aspirations into practical action and outcomes.
“I am confident that Simon will make an outstanding contribution as Co-Chair, providing both leadership and inspiration as the Board works to enhance local pride, create opportunities for residents and support the long-term prosperity of the neighbourhood. His commitment to public services and proven leadership experience makes him an excellent candidate for this appointment.”
Gareth Snell MP and Stoke-on-Trent City Councillors Sarah Jane Colclough and Lynn Watkins will serve on the neighbourhood board alongside local residents and representatives from local community groups.