Charlotte Beckhurst will lead the Pride in Penhill initiative, part of the Government’s wider Pride in Place scheme aimed at giving communities greater control over how investment is spent locally.
Her appointment follows what Will Stone described as an open recruitment process and a series of competitive interviews. She said:
“I am incredibly proud to take on the role of Independent Chair for Pride in Penhill. This is a community with huge strengths and potential, and I’m passionate about ensuring local voices are at the heart of the programme.
“I hope to bring collaborative leadership, strong partnerships and a real focus on listening to residents. Success for me will be about creating lasting opportunities, strengthening community pride and delivering meaningful change for local people.”
Will Stone said Charlotte’s appointment gave him “incredible confidence” in the future of the scheme. He said:
“Having someone as impressive as Charlotte on board to Chair the Pride in Penhill programme gives me incredible confidence in the success of Pride in Penhill delivering what matters most to the residents of Penhill.
“Charlotte is a strong individual with a track record of delivery throughout her educational career, I know she will listen to people across Penhill and lead the board recruitment and chair it with integrity.
“Charlotte also has the strength of character to stand up for the people of Penhill outside of political influence and I look forward to working alongside her and the board as it’s established over the coming weeks.
“Once the board is established I look forward to robust conversations with the people of Penhill to hear and learn how they want their money spent.”
Recruitment has now opened for a new neighbourhood board, which will decide how the £20 million investment is allocated.
Under the programme’s structure, at least 51 per cent of board members must be local residents. The board will work alongside the independent chair, local representatives and partner organisations to shape a long-term investment plan.
Applications are being encouraged from people who live or work in Penhill, as well as those with strong links to the area. Organisers say they want the board to reflect the diversity of the community.
The newly-appointed Community Engagement Officer, Camille, who is employed by Central Swindon North Parish Council, will oversee engagement activity in the coming months as plans are developed.
The board is expected to be established this summer. Community engagement and preparation of the investment plan will follow later in the year.
The final plan is due to be submitted to Government in winter 2026, with the first major delivery funding expected in spring 2027.
Residents can apply to join the board before the closing date of 18 June.
It is understood that Charlotte Beckhurst has not yet formally signed her contract as Independent Chair, as the appointment remains subject to final legal checks.
