The Neighbourhoods Fund is a major government initiative designed to invest £1.5 billion into 75 of the UK’s most undeserved communities over the next decade. This long-term programme aims to address the deep-rooted challenges faced by these areas and create sustainable improvements in local infrastructure, the economy, and quality of life. Each area could receive up to £20 million to support regeneration plans, with the focus on community-led approaches to rebuild and strengthen neighbourhoods.

Purpose and Scope

The Neighbourhoods Fund is primarily focused on tackling long-term social, economic, and environmental issues in communities that have often been overlooked by traditional funding mechanisms. The key aim is to foster community-led regeneration, empowering local authorities and residents to design solutions tailored to their unique needs. By improving infrastructure, supporting economic growth, and enhancing social cohesion, the fund aims to create a brighter and more sustainable future for these communities (Gov.uk, 2025).

Un-Competed Funding Process

One of the defining features of the Neighbourhoods Fund is its un-competed nature. Unlike many funding programmes where local authorities must compete for financial support, this fund will be distributed based on identified need. Local authorities and communities are selected for funding due to the specific challenges they face, rather than competing for resources with other areas. This approach ensures that areas with the most urgent requirements for regeneration receive the necessary support without the additional pressure of competing for funding (Gov.uk, 2025).

Eligible Communities and Funding Distribution

The fund targets 75 local authorities and communities across the UK, with each area potentially receiving up to £20 million over a ten-year period. The funding will be released incrementally, supporting long-term regeneration and improvement plans. This significant investment is intended to provide a stable, ongoing source of support for areas that have struggled with underdevelopment and lack of investment in the past (Gov.uk, 2025).

You can see the full list of eligible communities here: Gov.uk – Eligible Communites

Timeline and Key Dates

The programme is structured around a series of important milestones that ensure transparency and accountability throughout its implementation. Key dates include:

• April 22, 2025: Neighbourhood Boards must confirm their final membership and propose any changes to their place boundaries.
• Spring to Winter 2025: Neighbourhood Boards will submit their detailed regeneration plans to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) for approval.
• April 2026 onwards: Once regeneration plans are approved, funding for programme delivery will be released, and the implementation phase will commence.

These dates are essential for the smooth execution of the programme and ensure that the regeneration efforts remain on track and responsive to the needs of the communities involved (Gov.uk, 2025).

Profiles in Demand:

The Neighbourhoods Fund will impact the hiring landscape across the UK, with roles within regeneration taking the spotlight.

Key positions anticipated to be in-demand include:

• Regeneration Programme Manager
• Project Manager
• Neighbourhoods Fund Consultant

How We Can Help

At Vivid, we’re experienced in connecting local authorities and regeneration projects with the right interim talent.

Whether you’re looking for specialists in urban regeneration, project management, or community development, we can source qualified professionals to drive your regeneration plans forward.

We’re here to help

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