In September and October, the Kirkby Neighbourhood Board carried out a consultation to identify the key priorities for Kirkby to be addressed over the next 10 years.
Kirkby is part of the Government’s Pride in Place Strategy and is set to receive investment of £19.5m over the next 10 years.
Based on previous consultations carried out last year, the Kirkby Neighbourhood Board had developed a vision and proposed priorities which were shared for comment. Through this latest consultation, 472 people completed a survey, 58 targeted conversations were convened and there was over 40 hours of face –to-face activity through drop in events and attending community groups.
There was strong support for the priorities and vision for Kirkby which is:-
KIRKBY IN 2035 WILL BE . . .
A thriving and welcoming town, with local people invested in their communities. Together we will make Kirkby an even better place to live, work and grow.
The town centre is a vibrant mix of businesses, services, leisure and culture, a meeting place where families and communities come together.
Neighbourhoods are safe, green and inclusive, uplifting wellbeing and offering opportunities for everyone to play an active role in community life.
All residents, especially young people, have the ambition and opportunities to shape a positive future, with better access to education, jobs and services.
Together, we will build a Kirkby where people have the tools to thrive, and where the town centre and neighbourhoods reflect the pride, ambition and resilience of its people.
The Kirkby Neighbourhood Board had developed three key priorities – a vibrant town centre; safe and stronger neighbourhoods; and empowering people to succeed – which were supported based on the feedback received. The feedback included:-
- There is a shared desire for visible change and lasting improvement, particularly around schools, health services, shops and facilities for families and young people.
- People welcome regeneration plans, safer public spaces, better opportunities for young people, and investment in the town centre. Several note improvements already visible in some neighbourhoods and express hope that these efforts will continue and expand.
- Investment in primary and community healthcare is needed, with more NHS dentists and access to GP appointments highlighted.
- A shortage of school places was raised (mainly for some secondary school pupils), along with SEND provision and a lack of opportunities for young people when they leave school with people wanting local training, further education and support into employment.
- Youth services and inclusive spaces for all were also highlighted as priorities with better youth provision could make a real difference to the town.
- Calls for a stronger police presence, better lighting and wider use of CCTV were highlighted as issues impacting on feelings of safety.
- Quality retail, restaurants and family venues were requested.
- Traffic congestion and roads maintenance need addressing.
- Housing, in terms of affordability and availability, was also a key priority.
- Participants were proud of their local green spaces, but litter and maintenance were sighted as issues.
- Access to employment and skills was also mentioned, requesting collaboration with local businesses to provide training, work experience and employment for local people.
- Community facilities was also a key priority with places to gather, learn and access support. It was highlighted that there is a strong sense of community spirit and a sense of local pride, but there is a desire for improvements.
Max Steinberg CBE DL, Chair of Kirkby Neighbourhood Board, said “A huge thank you to everyone who took part in our latest consultation. Your input is invaluable in making sure the vision and plans for Kirkby truly reflect the priorities of local people.
“We have now gathered and reviewed all the feedback, which is helping us to further refine the Regeneration Plan for Kirkby before we submit it to the Government by the end of this month.
“Looking ahead, once the plan is approved, we hope to secure the first round of funding from April 2026 so that we can actively start to deliver your priorities set out within the Regeneration Plan for Kirkby.
“Once we do get the green light, I’ll ensure that regular updates are shared to keep you updated.”
You can read more about the Kirkby Neighbourhood Board here.