Newton-le-Willows Awaits Approval for Major £20 Million Regeneration Investment

Introduction: A Transformative Opportunity for Newton-le-Willows

Newton-le-Willows stands at a pivotal moment in its history as the town awaits government approval for an ambitious regeneration programme. £20 million of funding for the town was secured by St Helens Borough Council in Spring 2024 through the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s (MHCLG) Plans for Neighbourhoods Programme. This substantial investment represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform the Merseyside town, addressing key priorities identified by local residents themselves.

Community-Led Vision Shapes Investment Priorities

On 27 November, the Regeneration Plan and 4-Year Investment Plan were officially submitted to MHCLG and, if approved, funding and activity will commence in April 2026. The plans were developed through extensive community consultation, ensuring residents’ voices directly shaped the town’s future.

The Plans set out three priority investment themes for Period 1 (April 2026-March 2030): Regeneration, High Streets and Heritage (20% of the public vote), Education and Opportunity (19.5% of the public vote), and Health and Wellbeing (16.7% of the public vote). Additionally, the Newton-le-Willows Neighbourhood Board identified community cohesion as a crucial priority, proposing a ‘Community Pot’ to enable grassroots projects.

Leadership and Collaborative Approach

Chris Hickey, Chair of the Newton-le-Willows Neighbourhood Board said: “The Newton-le-Willows Regeneration Plan has been developed with the community and reflects the priorities of the residents of the town.” This collaborative approach has involved local residents, businesses, faith representatives, and council officials working together to create a shared vision for the town’s future.

Looking Ahead: Transforming Newton-le-Willows

As Newton-le-Willows awaits government approval, the potential impact of this investment cannot be overstated. David Baines MP, Member of Parliament for St Helens North said: “The £20 million Plan for Neighbourhoods funding has the potential to make meaningful, lasting change in the town.” For residents, this represents not just physical improvements to the town centre and amenities, but a comprehensive approach to enhancing education, health services, and community cohesion. If approved, work will begin in April 2026, marking the start of a decade-long transformation that could serve as a model for community-led regeneration across the country.