Luton MPs launch public survey to decide how £1.5m Pride in Place funding should be spent

Luton’s two Members of Parliament have launched a public survey asking residents how the town’s £1.5million share of the government’s new Pride in Place fund should be used.

The money, announced last month as part of a nationwide programme to help communities revive local spaces, can be spent on projects such as new parks, play areas, leisure facilities and improvements to high streets.

Luton South MP Rachel Hopkins said the joint survey with Luton North MP Sarah Owen will ensure local people shape how the funding is targeted.

“Local residents will shape how this funding is targeted to ensure it is spent on visible improvements that really matter, to bring people together, improve health and wellbeing, and strengthen our communities,” Ms Hopkins said in a statement on her website.

She added that the MPs wanted to hear suggestions for everything from “enhancing public parks” to “refurbishing community venues” and “revitalising high streets”, with all residents encouraged to take part.

Speaking in the House of Commons, Ms Hopkins said: “We are delighted in Luton to have been granted £1.5million from the Pride in Place impact fund. My hon. Friend the Member for Luton North (Sarah Owen) and I have launched a survey to get views from local residents about how we can use that funding to improve our neighbourhoods.”

Ms Owen also urged people to share their views in a video message on social media, saying the funding offered a chance to make a visible difference after years of underinvestment.

“What would you spend £1.5million on in Luton? Would it be tidying up your neighbourhood? Sprucing up the high street? Investing in the green spaces we’ve got?” she said. “Let’s be honest, we know that Luton can do with some love – whether it’s your neighbourhoods or your high streets like Marsh Road. We need your views. We need your opinions. What would you like to see improved?”

Residents can take part in the survey through the MPs’ websites or directly via the Labour Party’s online consultation portal at survey.labour.org.uk/eahdkxgcqfxs0hx1vdwlievws.