Views sought on £20m future plan for town

To get the funding, Bilston was assessed on criteria including deprivation, life expectancy and need for investment

Residents and businesses in Bilston are being asked to give their views on the future of the town as part of a government regeneration plan.

The Plan for Neighbourhoods Board for the town has launched a major consultation to find out "what matters most to people who live, work and spend time in Bilston".

It is one of six areas of the West Midlands to receive £20m each towards regeneration and supporting communities, the government announced earlier this year.

The feedback will form part of a community-led Regeneration and Investment Plan, which sets out priorities for the next 10 years, the City of Wolverhampton Council said.

"Bilston is a proud and resilient community with a rich history and a bright future," said Stephen Simkins, council leader and member of the neighbourhoods board.

"This is a unique opportunity for local people to help shape the next chapter of Bilston's story.

"We want to hear from everyone, whether you live there, run a business, or simply visit the town."

He added the views would help create a plan "that reflects the real needs and aspirations of our community".

Bedworth in Warwickshire, Darlaston, Dudley and Smethwick in the Black Country, and Sutton Coldfield in Birmingham will also get £20m over the next 10 years as part of the scheme.

The government released £1.5bn to 75 areas in the UK that were assessed on criteria including deprivation, life expectancy and need for investment.

An online survey to share view is open until 30 September and pop-up events will also be held around Bilston from 5 to 10 September.