In February 2026, we received initial feedback from the Government on our Regeneration Plan, marking an important milestone in the ongoing work to shape the future of the area.
Since the submission of our Regeneration Plan in November 2025, the Government have been undertaking a review and have now completed the second of three stages of assessment. The Government panel has provided some initial views on the Plan for Smethwick.
The feedback welcomed the quality of the community engagement that underpinned the Plan, highlighting the strong local involvement and the clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the area. This recognition reflects the valuable contributions made by Smethwick residents, community groups, businesses and partners throughout the engagement process.
As part of their review, the Government asked for further assurance around the activities described in the Plan, particularly as no specific projects were included at the submission stage. To support this, the Government has asked us to set out the types of activities we would like to see funded across all investment themes, particularly during the first four years of the programme.
In response, we have reviewed the feedback from Smethwick residents and local communities provided in Summer 2025 and identified several initiatives that fit within the investment themes, reflecting local needs and aspirations.
Identifying these activities helps provide clarity and direction for the programme and demonstrates how community feedback is shaping future investment. Importantly, while these initiatives have been identified as areas of focus, this does not guarantee funding. Any organisations or groups wishing to deliver these activities will be required to apply through the same open and transparent process as all applicants.
We have now submitted our response to the Government, and the additional pages can be viewed on pages 18–21.
View Smethwick's 10-Year Regeneration Plan (Version 2) here
We look forward to their next stage of feedback and to continuing to work with our communities to deliver meaningful, positive change for Smethwick.