Caerphilly Council is searching for individuals to manage the allocation of £20 million towards renewal initiatives in the northern part of the county borough.
The UK Government’s Pride in Place scheme will deliver ten years of investment to Aberbargoed, Bargoed, and New Tredegar to enable lasting enhancements.
An independent neighbourhood panel will formulate expenditure strategies, with the local MP and a minimum of one ward councillor also sitting on the panel.
The local authority is currently inviting applications from those wishing to serve as chair of the independent panel.
Once established, the panel will collaborate with residents to determine the most effective use of the funds.
Senior councillors, who identified the northern borough as an area requiring investment, have expressed support for the initiative.
According to a council document, the panel could comprise local inhabitants, business owners, activists and individuals with strong ties to the area.
The majority of the £20 million will be designated for capital expenditure on tangible schemes.
Caerphilly Council leader Jamie Pritchard previously expressed hope that the funding would help tackle deep-rooted disadvantage.
He indicated to cabinet members in December, when the three communities were selected for the money, that there was a desire to see all parts of the borough develop and to narrow the gap as much as possible, adding that greater equality leads to a better society.
Steve Reed, the UK Government’s secretary of state for housing, communities and local government, described the Pride in Place funding as an innovative approach to achieving transformation.
He explained that the strategy introduces various new powers and resources that communities can employ to revitalise their neighbourhoods and town centres.
He noted that these powers give local residents control over how to regenerate their own areas.
Those wishing to be considered for the chairperson position should get in touch with the council to review the requirements and application process by contacting prideinyourplace@caerphilly.gov.uk
The council confirmed the position is unpaid but acknowledged that appropriate expenses may be reimbursed.
The closing date for applications is April 30.