Overview

• The package includes £3.5bn for 169 areas paid at £2m a year for a decade, builds on £1.5bn already committed to 75 places, and gives a further 95 areas an immediate £1.5m for public space upgrades.
• Councils gain the ability to block new betting shops, vape stores and so‑called fake barbers, alongside stronger compulsory purchase powers and a Community Right to Buy to rescue pubs, libraries and other assets.
• Spending decisions will be signed off only where neighbourhood Pride in Place boards have engaged local groups, with programmes tailored with devolved governments and corresponding funding for Northern Ireland.
• Communities will have up to 12 months to raise funds to take over threatened assets, doubling the current window under the proposed reforms.
• Ministers present the drive as restoring local pride and answering discontent linked to Reform UK, with Steve Reed saying some proliferating barber shops have been tied to crime and experts warning rapid, clear delivery will be crucial.