We’re launching a search for local residents to help shape the future of Whitehawk, as work begins to set up a new Neighbourhood Board with control over a huge £20 million investment.
If you’re passionate about Whitehawk and keen to play a key part in ensuring that the £20 million Pride in Place investment is put to most effective use for the community, we’d love to hear from you.
The Whitehawk Neighbourhood Board will put local people front and centre, giving residents a direct say in how the money is spent over the next decade. The £20 million comes from the government’s Pride in Place programme, aimed at improving neighbourhoods across the country.
The recruitment for the post of Independent Chair is also continuing and we’re inviting people with a connection and a commitment to the area to put themselves forward for all available roles.
All those interested just need to email prideinplace@brighton-hove.gov.uk with a CV of no more than 2 pages, along with a short covering letter outlining their motivation for applying, their connection to Whitehawk or similar communities, and how their experience and skills are relevant for the roles.
The deadline for expressing interest is 9am on Monday 1 June.
No previous experience in a similar role is required, full training, guidance and support will be available to make sure everyone involved can get the maximum out of the roles – and play a crucial role in steering improvements for the community.
The chair and board members will work together to develop the Whitehawk Pride in Place Plan - the document that will set out the community’s priorities and the projects to be funded.
The expectation is that once up and running, the chair and board members will need to commit to around 2 days a month. The roles are voluntary with expenses covered, including childcare.
Councillor Bella Sankey, Leader of the Council, said: “This is an important opportunity for Whitehawk. We want residents to get in touch if they are interested in being involved as a member of the new Neighbourhood Board.
“Local knowledge and local voices will be at the heart of this board and what the programme delivers for the community.
“Whether you’ve done anything like this before or not, if you are care about your community and have ideas about its future we want to hear from you.”
Chris Ward, MP for Brighton Kemp Town, said: “This is a once‑in‑a‑generation investment for Whitehawk. The Neighbourhood Board will drive the long‑term plan and ensure the funding is used where it matters most.
“We’re looking for residents who care about their area and want to help shape its future.”
The board will bring together local residents, community groups, businesses, public services, the local MP and ward councillors. At least 51% of members must live or work in Whitehawk, ensuring the group is genuinely resident‑led.
Once the board is in place, they’ll help set up a series of engagement events and conversations in the community to make sure as many people as possible can get involved in developing the Whitehawk Pride in Place Plan.
The council must confirm proposed board membership to government by 17 July 2026.
A community focused leader is being sought to help drive forward the Pride in Place programme, which will bring £20 million of government investment into Whitehawk over the next decade.