£41.5m to breathe new life into city - and you get to say how it is spent

The Prime Minister has announced a major Pride in Place Programme with historic funding to lead renewal in some of the country's overlooked communities - with Sunderland amongst the areas to benefit.

- by Katy Wheeler

Wearmouth Bridge in Sunderland.

With the fund aimed at letting "residents reclaim beloved assets and drive patriotic renewal", 169 areas nationally will receive £2million every year for a decade, which the Government says gives long-overlooked communities the certainty and control they need to plan for the future.

A further 95 areas will receive an immediate £1.5million to upgrade public spaces with new green spaces, play areas and sports and leisure facilities.

Overall, the North East will receive £269million of investment.

Ofthat, Sunderland is set to receive up to £41.5million, according to the announcement.