Nicky Kingsnorth has spent the last 14 years in Wellingborough’s classrooms, supporting children and families across the Queensway estate. This deep local connection is now being channeled into a formal leadership role as North Northamptonshire Council confirms Kingsnorth as the Chair of the Queensway Neighbourhood Board.
The appointment marks the start of a £20 million investment cycle for the area. Over the next decade, the Pride in Place programme aims to transform the local landscape through community-led decision-making. Similar initiatives are already seeing residents lead community investment in other regions, focusing on grassroots priorities rather than top-down mandates.
Decade-long regeneration plan for Wellingborough
The Queensway Neighbourhood Board is tasked with drafting a shared 10-year vision for the estate. This plan will identify specific local priorities and determine how the multi-million pound funding will be allocated, reflecting a wider focus on local regeneration plans. As Chair, Kingsnorth will act as a pivotal link between local residents, the MP, councillors, and partner organizations to ensure the regeneration reflects the needs of those who live there.
The voluntary position was specifically open to individuals with strong ties to the area. Kingsnorth’s experience working with thousands of young people in the community provided the foundation for this oversight role, which requires championing transparent governance and community engagement throughout the 10-year term.
Expanding the Pride in Place initiative
The Queensway project is part of a wider regional strategy to revitalize specific neighborhoods. North Northamptonshire Council is currently rolling out similar Pride in Place schemes in Avondale Grange in Kettering, as well as Kingswood, Hazel Leys, and Exeter in Corby.
While Kingsnorth takes the helm in Wellingborough, the chairs for the Kettering and Corby boards are expected to be announced shortly. Residents interested in the long-term progress of these regeneration plans can find further technical details on the North Northamptonshire Council website.
Source: North Northamptonshire Council
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