Projects: Plan for Neighbourhoods (Smethwick)

In October 2023, Smethwick was selected as one of 55 towns to receive up to £20 million in funding from the former Government over a 10-year period under the Long-Term Plan for Towns programme. To unlock this funding, Smethwick was tasked with creating a Long-Term Plan based on the aspirations and needs of its residents.

Between April and June 2024, The Smethwick Partnership Board (we) invited local communities to share their views and contribute to the development of the Smethwick Long-Term Plan through a dedicated survey. We are grateful to everyone who took part and provided valuable feedback. We deeply appreciate your engagement and want to assure you that your input continues to be a vital part of this process.

Based on the community feedback, we worked hard to draft the Smethwick Long-Term Investment Plan, which was completed at the end of July 2024. However, the new Government postponed the submission of all Long-Term Plans across the country. We have since been awaiting further guidance regarding the future of the programme.

In December 2024, the Government confirmed that the programme would continue, though with a few changes. The name and themes of the programme were under review and we were advised more details would be shared early 2025.

In February 2025, the Government introduced the Plan for Neighbourhoods, which will replace the previous Long-Term Plan for Towns. This new programme will focus on three strategic objectives: –

• Thriving Places
• Stronger Neighbourhoods
• Taking Back Control

These objectives are designed to create lasting positive change in communities across Smethwick and beyond. We understand the eagerness of many residents and community groups to learn more and we greatly appreciate your continued patience and support as we navigate this transitional period.

Looking Ahead: Community Engagement

Engaging with the community remains a top priority and we are committed to ensuring that there will be ample opportunity for all Smethwick residents, community groups and businesses to have their voices heard within the revised programme. There will be sufficient time to collaborate to shape the future of Smethwick.

Stay Connected
If you would like to take part in future engagement activities relating to this funding programme, please email town_deal@sandwell.gov.uk and you will be added to our mailing list.

The Smethwick Partnership Board
A Smethwick Partnership Board has been established and will oversee both the Smethwick Town Deal and the Long Term Plan Programmes. View the Terms of Reference here.

The Smethwick Partnership Board comprises a wide range of key stakeholders from community, business, voluntary, public-sector and faith organisations as well as local councillors, the MP, and the Police & Crime Commissioner or their representative. All board members are required to read, sign and complete the Code of Conduct.

Smethwick Partnership Board Papers
You can view the agenda and minutes for Smethwick Partnership Board meetings here.