Communities and organisations across Hartlepool are being invited to apply for funding to improve local parks, public spaces, beaches and community assets. The borough's Pride in Place programme has launched its first open call for proposals, with up to £200,000 of capital funding available.
The Government-backed Pride in Place programme is led locally by the Hartlepool Board, a partnership of community representatives, businesses, public services, educational institutions and strategic partners. The programme aims to give residents and communities a greater role in shaping investment and delivering change in their neighbourhoods.
What funding is available
Applications are being invited under two key priorities: enhancing and activating parks, public spaces and beaches, and investing in community assets and neighbourhood spaces.
Malcolm Walker, Chair of the Hartlepool Board, said: "This is an exciting moment for Pride in Place because we are moving from listening and planning to delivering visible improvements in Hartlepool's communities. Local people have told us clearly what matters to them. Now we want communities and organisations to come forward with ambitious ideas that can improve the places people use every day, whether that is a park, a beach, a community building or an important neighbourhood space."
Walker added that the first £200,000 funding call is only the beginning. Pride in Place is a ten-year opportunity to put local people at the heart of investment and create lasting change.
Community engagement shaped the programme
The local Pride in Place programme was shaped by extensive community engagement during summer 2025. More than 1,400 residents were involved through community conversations, surveys, workshops and events. More than 900 face-to-face conversations took place across all 12 Hartlepool Borough Council wards. Engagement also included voluntary and community organisations, businesses, schools, colleges and faith groups.
How to apply
The deadline for funding applications is 5pm on Monday 30 November 2026. Organisations and groups can access the prospectus, application guidance, application form and further information at www.hartlepool.gov.uk/prideinplace
Following assessment, funding recommendations are expected to be made in early 2027.
Hartlepool Opportunities Partnership (HOP) has been commissioned by the Board to provide support and guidance to organisations developing proposals. Support is available by emailing myprideinplace@hopvcse.org.uk
Submitting ideas
Residents with project ideas can share these through the Community Ideas route on www.hartlepool.gov.uk/prideinplace although Community Ideas will not be assessed as part of this first funding round. These ideas will help shape future phases of the Pride in Place programme and inform future investment opportunities.
Councillor Dave Bruce, Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: "I would encourage local groups and organisations to think boldly, bring forward strong ideas and make the most of this opportunity. This is about investing in places, but more importantly it is about investing in people and pride in Hartlepool. With £20 million being invested in Hartlepool over the next ten years, we have a fantastic opportunity to deliver lasting change."
