Wrexham City Board Unveils £20 Million Plan for Transformation

The Wrexham City Board has launched an ambitious plan to transform the city with a commitment of up to £20 million in funding from the UK Government, aimed at fostering sustainable change in the community. The initiative, part of the “Plan for Neighbourhoods,” is designed to leverage the city’s existing confidence and set the stage for a brighter future as the funding is expected to begin flowing in April 2026.

Chaired by Rachel Clacher, co-founder of Moneypenny and founder of the WeMindTheGap charity, the Wrexham City Board aims to utilize the investment as a catalyst for attracting further financial support while building partnerships that resonate with the city’s vibrant community spirit. The Executive Board of Wrexham Council has recently endorsed the overview plan, emphasizing its importance for local development.

“We’re absolutely delighted to be one of the first cities to submit our Plan for Neighbourhoods,” Clacher stated. “We’re impatient – in the best possible way – to start investing in Wrexham and turning our community’s ideas into real opportunities.” She highlighted that the plan is the result of extensive engagement with local residents, reflecting their aspirations for the city.

The Board’s newly appointed Programme Manager, Lisa Scully, expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting that a focused investment strategy, particularly in the city centre and youth initiatives, could create significant benefits across the region. “By making the city centre safer, more attractive, and more welcoming, we will change perceptions, increase footfall, and encourage people to spend more time there,” Scully explained.

Transforming Wrexham’s Urban Landscape

The draft plan outlines a vision for a revitalized city centre that appeals to young people, featuring a flagship Youth Zone facility. This initiative aims to instill pride in Wrexham among the next generation and create pathways for education and employment. The Board is committed to celebrating Wrexham’s unique culture and heritage, particularly in light of its aspirations to be designated a City of Culture in 2029.

According to the draft, a safer and more vibrant city centre will not only attract residents but also visitors and investors, creating a cycle of growth and community pride. “These collective improvements will showcase Wrexham’s potential, unlocking further private and public investment and extending regeneration from the city centre into neighbourhoods across the County Borough,” the report states.

The Board acknowledges that real change must extend beyond the city centre to address deep-rooted inequalities in health, income, and education that persist in certain neighbourhoods. The funding from the Plan for Neighbourhoods is viewed as a crucial opportunity to tackle these disparities, ensuring that all areas benefit from the proposed investments.

Building a Collaborative Future

The Wrexham City Board is determined to ensure that the voices of the community are heard throughout the planning and implementation stages. This commitment to inclusivity is seen as vital for fostering long-term engagement and success. Clacher emphasized the importance of starting early: “Submitting early means we can make the most of every day ahead, working with government to maximize this opportunity and be ready to hit the ground running.”

As Wrexham gains recognition for its achievements, particularly through its football club and cultural initiatives, the city is poised for growth. The Board’s vision includes enhancing transportation, expanding economic opportunities, and promoting well-being, all while fostering creativity and ensuring that benefits are felt by all residents.

Wrexham’s rich history and community spirit are cornerstones of its identity, and the Board is committed to nurturing this environment while attracting new investment. As the city prepares to embark on this transformative journey, the Wrexham City Board aims to harness the enthusiasm and aspirations of its residents to build a future where everyone can thrive.