Next round of Government funding approved for Newton-le-Willows

Article date: July 11th 2025

In April and May 2025, an extensive six-week public consultation took place focusing on 8 key investment themes. Over 680 residents actively engaged in the process and key findings will play a vital role in shaping the long-term vision and investment priorities for the town. 

To support the next stage of development, MHCLG has now released a further £200,000 of funding to be used to build local capacity and capability in support of the delivery of the programme. St Helens Council will work in partnership with the Newton-le-Willows Neighbourhood Board to establish how best to allocate funding to strengthen public engagement and ensure project readiness once the main delivery funding is released. 

The Newton-le-Willows Neighbourhood Board, which is chaired by Mercury Hampton Managing Director and Co-Founder Chris Hickey, was established in 2024 to oversee the development of a 10-Year Regeneration Plan and 4-Year Investment Plan for the area. The Board brings together residents, businesses and community leaders to devise and agree a shared vision for the future.  

David Baines MP, Member of Parliament for St Helens North said:  

 "I'd like to thank the hundreds of local residents who have already taken part in the engagement events which have been held, and I'd also like to thank the other members of the board for their continuing hard work to deliver the best outcomes for our community. Newton-le-Willows is already a fantastic place to live and work, and with this funding we're going to make it even better." 

Councillor Anthony Burns, Leader of St Helens Council said:  

"Newton-le-Willows is ready for investment and this funding will help our ambition to deliver meaningful improvements for our residents. The work that has already been undertaken by the Newton-le-Willows Neighbourhood Board and Council Officers has been fantastic to see and it is heartening to see this recognised by Government with this next stage of funding being released. This is just the beginning - we have bold ambitions for the area and are committed to making positive change not only for the town but for the Borough as a whole." 

Chris Hickey, Chair of the Newton-le-Willows Neighbourhood Board said:  

"As a Board, we are committed to delivering real change for the people of Newton-le-Willows. This next stage of funding will allow us to continue to move at pace on producing a long-term vision for the area, with residents firmly at the heart of the process. We want Newton-le-Willows to be a thriving community that people are proud to call home and that businesses want to invest in."  

Delivery funding for the Plan for Neighbourhoods Programme will be released from the beginning of the 2026 to 2027 financial year.