Another week, another government announcement about “restoring pride” to our high streets.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has unveiled the Pride in Place programme, promising that more than 330 communities will get new powers to take over boarded-up buildings, block vape shops and betting offices, and rescue derelict pubs or libraries.
On paper, it all sounds great. Communities will supposedly have the chance to shape how money is spent, and local councils will be able to force owners to bring empty shops back into use.
But here in Ilkeston, we’ve heard it all before. Over the years, residents have sat through countless pledges about levelling up, regeneration funds and high street revival. Yet Bath Street still has boarded-up units, the Market Place still looks tired, and many buildings stand empty while new “quick fix” shops fill the gaps.
The government hasn’t even confirmed whether Ilkeston will be included in the 330 areas. And even if it is, the timeline is painfully slow — with funding not due to flow until 2026. By then, how many more businesses will have closed their doors?
Local people are rightly asking: when will the talking stop, and the real investment start?
👉 What do you think, Ilkeston? Are you hopeful this new scheme could finally deliver change — or is it just another headline without substance?
One Comment
What happened to the Pride of Place programme? Andy Burnham seem to be saying all the same promises but there is no sign of any action to improve the town.