Havant Borough Council is pleased to announce the appointment of the Pride in Place Chairs for Wecock and Leigh Park, marking an important step in supporting local leadership, community voice and neighbourhood improvement.
The Pride in Place Chairs will champion the priorities of residents, strengthen partnerships across the area and support practical action to help the areas thrive. Working with local people, community organisations and partner agencies, the Chairs will play a key role in bringing energy, visibility and coordination to the next phase of place-based improvement.
The newly appointed Chairs of Wecock, Ann Waters and Marie Hattersley, work effectively as a team at the Acorn Centre and bring a strong commitment to the area and a shared passion for making a positive difference in Wecock. Chris Anders, well-known as Headteacher of Park Community School, has been appointed Chair of Leigh Park. He brings many years of experience working in the community with families and young people in the area.
Their leadership will help ensure local people remain at the heart of decision-making and that community priorities continue to shape future plans and investment.
Councillor Gillian Harris, Leader of Havant Borough Council, said: "I am delighted to welcome the Pride in Place Chairs for Wecock and Leigh Park, and I look forward to being able to support them in their role in driving change for their areas. Their appointment reflects the strength of local leadership and our shared ambition to create lasting, positive change for the community. This government's Pride in Place programme will deliver real difference to both these areas."
Alongside the appointment of the Chairs, recruitment is now under way for additional board members who can bring local insight, professional experience and a strong commitment to either area. The boards will help guide priorities, support delivery and ensure a broad range of voices and perspectives are represented as the programme moves forward.
For more information about the Pride in Place programme, our Chairs, or about applying to join either board, please visit our website.
If you have any questions or would like an informal chat please contact Richard Jones, Funding & Programme Officer, on 07425 661754 or prideinplace@havant.gov.uk