Independent chair appointed to lead south Telford £30million regeneration
Telford & Wrekin Council has confirmed the appointment of an independent chair for the Pride in Place South Telford Neighbourhood Board, marking a significant step in a ten-year transformation programme for Woodside, Brookside, and Sutton Hill.
The Reverend Jo Farnworth takes on the role to guide the £30 million project, which is backed by £20 million of government investment and a further £10 million from the local authority.
Jo Farnworth brings over 27 years of experience supporting communities facing social and economic challenges across central and south Telford, as well as Greater Manchester. Her background includes partnership-driven community regeneration and strengthening the voices of local residents.
Speaking on her appointment, Jo Farnworth said: “I am honoured to serve as Chair of the Pride in Place South Telford Neighbourhood Board. This voluntary role aligns closely with my values, my professional experience, and my commitment to Telford as the place where I now live, work and serve.
“Having spent my career working alongside communities facing significant challenges, I know how powerful it is when residents are genuinely listened to and treated as partners in shaping their future. I look forward to working collaboratively with residents, local partners and organisations to help build stronger, healthier and more hope-filled neighbourhoods.”
Councillor Lee Carter, Leader of Telford & Wrekin Council, welcomed the appointment, noting the high calibre of applicants for the position. He said: “Jo brings a depth of insight, leadership and community understanding that will be invaluable as we embark on this ambitious programme. I would also like to thank all the candidates who applied. The calibre of applicants was exceptionally high, and their passion and commitment were clear.”
The programme aims to deliver both immediate visible improvements and long-term regeneration. Woodside was among the first areas in the country to be included in the national initiative, which was highlighted during a visit by Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Communities Secretary Steve Reed in September 2025.
Shaun Davies, MP for Telford, said: “Jo Farnworth brings not only the right experience, but the passion to help drive this forward for our community. This role is about bringing local people and organisations together, so the project stays focused on what really matters to residents. It’s an important step to what really matters – delivering the change and improvements that residents in South Telford tell us they want.”
With the chair now in place, the council is moving to the next phase of forming the neighbourhood board. Recruitment will soon begin for members including residents, businesses, schools, and health partners. The board will be responsible for co-designing the ten-year Pride in Place Plan. Additionally, the council has opened recruitment for a programme lead to drive the delivery of the project.
