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Following an open recruitment process, John Wheatley has been appointed as Chair, alongside Deputy Chair Chloe Critchley. Together, they will play a key role in championing the local area and ensuring the community-led spirit remains at the heart of this significant investment.
John has lived in Bournville for 16 years with his family. A dedicated volunteer youth and community worker, he currently chairs the local network of children’s and youth organisations. He is also a school governor and works part-time training youth and community workers, while studying community leadership.
John said: “I’m excited to be leading our Pride in Place team. After 16 years of building community here, this is an opportunity to really bring people together, grow local leadership, and build things that will last. I’m looking forward to the whole community working side by side to make a long-term difference in our neighbourhood.”
Chloe grew up in Bournville and, after spending some time living elsewhere, returned to raise her own family in the area she calls home. She has a strong track record of supporting the local community, from running baby groups with XTND and delivering youth sessions with the YMCA, to supporting older residents at the For All Healthy Living Centre. Alongside her practical experience, Chloe holds a BA (Hons) in Early Years.
Chloe said: "Having grown up and raising my family here, I know just how much potential is within our neighbourhood. I want this project to be a space where everyone from our youngest residents to our elders feels heard and empowered to help build on their amazing community."
With £20 million set to be invested over the next ten years, Pride in Place represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver lasting change in Weston Bournville, with local residents at the centre of decision-making.
Recruitment for additional board members will open soon. Residents are encouraged to look out for further information on how to get involved and help shape the future of Weston Bournville.
Councillor James Clayton, North Somerset Council’s Cabinet Member for Pride in Place programme, said: “Too often, decisions are made about communities rather than with them. Pride in Place flips that on its head, and that’s why this recruitment matters. With the right voices around the table, this can become something genuinely shaped by and for local people.
“With John and Chloe’s leadership, this is a real opportunity to turn local knowledge and passion into lasting change.”
Dan Aldridge, Labour MP for Weston-super-Mare, said: “I’m delighted to welcome John and Chloe into these important leadership roles for Pride in Place. Both bring a deep understanding of Weston Bournville, real passion for their community, and a track record of stepping up and making a difference.
“John’s years of experience supporting young people and building local networks, alongside Chloe’s commitment to families and community life, make them a fantastic team to lead this work.
“Pride in Place is all about putting power in the hands of local people, and I’m confident that under their leadership we will see real, lasting change driven by the community itself.”
The long-term nature of the funding means plans can evolve in response to community needs, providing a stable foundation for sustainable investment. Areas were selected nationally using clear, published data to ensure a fair and transparent process.