People Powered Places: Local Projects Announced Across Newham

Newham Council and Royal Docks is pleased to announce the successful projects funded through this year’s People Powered Places programme, marking another major milestone in resident-led decision making across the borough.

Over 130 community projects funded across Newham through People Powered Places

• More than 11,000 residents took part in “The Big Vote”, directly deciding which projects received funding

• A record number of grassroots and resident-led ideas supported, including 66 resident-led projects

• 33 youth-led projects funded, with youth investment ring-fenced for the first time

• An additional £80,000 from the Royal Docks Team is supporting projects in Beckton, the Royal Docks, and Custom House & Canning Town

Following a borough-wide process that saw more than 11,000 residents take part in “The Big Vote”, local people have once again directly shaped how funding is invested in their communities.

Mayor of Newham, Forhad Hussain, said: “We’re committed to giving local people a real say in shaping the borough, empowering residents to make positive changes – because they know their neighbourhoods best. 

"It’s fantastic to see thousands of people taking part in the Big Vote, and I’m especially proud to see more youth-led projects coming forward, ensuring young people are helping to lead positive change in the places they live.

"We want residents to feel listened to, involved and empowered, and with continued Council support, we will keep backing community-led action that makes a real difference across the borough.”

This year’s programme will fund over 130 projects across Newham, supporting initiatives that promote health and wellbeing, strengthen social connections, develop new skills, and improve local neighbourhoods. The programme continues to grow in scale and impact, with more grassroots projects than ever before receiving support, including 66 resident-led ideas that reflect the priorities and creativity of local communities.

In a significant step forward, this is also the first year that funding has been ring-fenced specifically for young people, resulting in 33 youth-led projects being supported. Additional investment from the Royal Docks Team has further strengthened delivery in parts of the borough.

Dan Bridge, Programme Director at the Royal Docks Team, said: “Everyone in the Royal Docks benefits when local people have the means to lead positive change in their communities. We see this as an essential part of the area’s transformation and that’s why we are proud to be supporting People Powered Places once again. We can’t wait to see what new, brilliant projects emerge this time.”

As projects move into delivery, Newham Council will continue working closely with residents, community organisations and partners to ensure their success and long-term sustainability. Residents will be able to follow progress and find opportunities to get involved through Newham Co-Create.

Together, these projects mark an important step in strengthening community-led decision making in Newham, ensuring residents continue to play a central role in shaping their neighbourhoods and creating lasting, positive change across the borough.

Find out more about local projects as part of the People Powered Places programme