Swindon Academy head named chair of £20m Pride in Penhill scheme

The appointment of Charlotte Beckhurst, headteacher of Swindon Academy, was reported by Swindon24 on Wednesday 27 May 2026. Pride in Penhill is part of the Government's Pride in Place scheme, which gives communities more control over local investment, and will bring £20 million into Penhill over the next decade.

Swindon North MP Will Stone said Ms Beckhurst was chosen after an open recruitment process and competitive interviews. At the time of the report she had not formally signed her contract, as the appointment was subject to final legal checks.

Who decides how the £20m is spent?

A new neighbourhood board decides how the money is allocated. When the appointment was announced the board was recruiting:

• At least 51% of board members must be local residents.
• Applications were encouraged from people who live or work in Penhill or have strong links to the area.
• The closing date for applications was 18 June 2026.
• A community engagement officer employed by Central Swindon North Parish Council was to lead engagement with residents.

The timetable given

• Summer 2026: board established
• Later in 2026: community engagement and work on the investment plan
• Winter 2026: final plan submitted to the Government
• Spring 2027: first major delivery funding expected

Ms Beckhurst said: "I am incredibly proud to take on the role of Independent Chair for Pride in Penhill."

Source: Swindon24.