Neighbourhood Board Chair appointed for Pride in Place project, Wick and Toddington
We are pleased to announce that Jon Jolly will lead the Neighbourhood Board on the Pride in Place programme for Wick and Toddington.
Pride in Place is a government investment programme that backs areas where additional funding can make a meaningful difference to local people. The £20million award will fund locally led initiatives that will improve the lives of everyone who lives, works, studies, or visits Wick and Toddington.
Jon Jolly brings significant expertise in supporting and strengthening organisations. Since 2014, he has served as executive leader at Arun Church in Littlehampton, providing strategic oversight of its ministries and community services.
Before stepping into executive leadership, Mr Jolly spent 15 years leading youth and children's work. He developed a vision and strategy for a wide range of projects, working closely with local councils, police, schools, social services, and voluntary agencies.
The Chair's first task is to establish the Neighbourhood Board, which will incorporate a wide representation from the Wick and Toddington community in age range, gender, residents and volunteers.
Jon Jolly said: “I am delighted to be asked to be the Chair of the Neighbourhood Board. This is our opportunity to find out the communities' priorities for how this investment should be spent.”
Chair of the Council, and Councillor for Wick and Toddington, Freddie Tandy said: I'm pleased to welcome Jon, who brings extensive experience in community leadership as well as his long-term commitment to the people of Wick and Toddington.
"The Pride in Place programme represents a significant investment in our area, and I'm confident that under Jon's guidance, the Neighbourhood Board will ensure that local voices shape how this funding delivers real and lasting benefits for our community."
Alison Griffiths MP for Bognor Regis and Littlehampton said: “This £20 million investment in Wick and Toddington is a real opportunity, but it has to deliver for the people who live there day in, day out.
“Residents want to see practical improvements, whether that is better local services, safer streets, or stronger support for families and young people.
“Under Jon's leadership, the Board must listen to the community and make sure the funding is spent on what matters locally, so people can see a clear and lasting difference in their area.”
Leader of Arun District Council, Councillor Martin Lury said: “This broad cross‑section of the community, led by Jon will play a central role in shaping how the Pride in Place investment delivers meaningful and lasting change for Wick and Toddington.
“The establishment of the Board marks the beginning of a collaborative process that ensures local priorities, aspirations, and lived experiences guide decision‑making at every stage of the programme.”