Stephen Kinnock MP has welcomed the appointment of Karen Jones as Chair of the Upper Afan Valley Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board — a significant first step in delivering long-term investment and community-led renewal for the area.
The appointment marks the first major milestone for the Upper Afan Valley Pride In Place programme, which will bring £20 million of UK Government investment over the next ten years to the Upper Afan Valley.
Welcoming the news, the Member of Parliament for Aberafan Maesteg said:
“I am delighted that Karen Jones has agreed to serve as Chair of the Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board in the Upper Afan Valley. Karen brings a strong commitment to the area and a real passion for community-led change. Pride in Place is about putting local people at the heart of decision-making, and I know Karen will play a vital role in helping deliver a brighter future for communities across the valley.”
As Chair, Karen Jones will now lead the next phase of the programme, beginning with establishing the Neighbourhood Board. Working closely with residents and partners, the Neighbourhood Board will develop a 10-year vision and a 4-year delivery plan, ensuring that the programme reflects local priorities and creates lasting benefits across the Upper Afan Valley.
Pride in Place is the UK Government’s flagship programme investing £5.8billion over ten years to communities across the country. The Upper Afan Valley is one of just nine areas in Wales selected to receive the funding.