A new independent Chair has been appointed to lead the Pride in Place Salisbury Bemerton Community Board, marking an important step forward in delivering community-led improvements in the area.

Tom Belshaw has been selected as independent Chair. The appointment comes as Salisbury Bemerton prepares to benefit from up to £20 million of government funding through the Pride in Place programme, supporting long term regeneration over the next decade.

Tom brings a strong track record in community development, governance and partnership working. He has lived locally for nearly 15 years and he has deep personal and professional ties to the area.

Alongside his professional career, Tom is a trustee of two local youth charities and has previously been a school governor at a local primary school. He currently works in governance at a Salisbury-based national charity, advising senior leaders on the strategic impacts of risk and compliance issues, and supporting projects from development through to evaluation.

Before specialising in governance, Tom worked in youth and community development in Hampshire and Salisbury giving him valuable experience in grassroots engagement and delivering impact at a local level.

The Pride in Place Community Board will bring together local residents, community organisations, businesses, public sector partners, local councillors and MP. The Board will play a central role in shaping the future of Salisbury Bemerton by setting priorities, overseeing delivery and developing a shared 10-year vision based on what matters most to the community.

The funding programme aims to invest in initiatives that improve everyday life, including community facilities, public spaces, opportunities for young people and projects that strengthen local price and connection.

Cllr Helen Belcher, Wiltshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Regeneration and Assets, said: “I’m delighted that Tom has been selected to lead the Pride in Place Board. Up to £20 million funding will help to build a stronger and thriving Bemerton. I’m excited to see the work that Tom and the Board will do to implement a 10-year investment programme where residents’ voices will be at the centre of change.”

Tom Belshaw, independent Chair, said: “It’s a real privilege to take on the role of Chair of the Community Board.

“I believe Bemerton has great strengths and assets – from its people to its spaces and places – and this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build on those good things. This investment in our community is not just about the next 10 years; done well, it can unlock other opportunities for decades to come.

“My priority will be to ensure residents are at the heart of decision-making, with a genuine voice in shaping the future of our community. By working together, we can create a Bemerton where everyone feels they belong and can get on in life and not just get by.”

Cllr Ricky Rogers, Wiltshire Councillor for the Salisbury Fisherton & Bemerton Village Ward, said: “I am thrilled that Tom Belshaw has been chosen to lead the delivery of the Government’s £20 Million ‘Pride in Place Salisbury Bemerton’ Regeneration Programme. I look forward to working with him, the Community Panel and local residents in shaping Bemerton’s future.”

Applications are now open to become a member of the Salisbury Bemerton Community Board. Local residents, community representatives and those passionate about making a difference are encouraged to apply using the online form https://surveys.wiltshire.gov.uk/s/lvx0gq. A copy of the form can be requested by emailing prideinplace@wiltshire.gov.uk or alternatively a hard copy can be collected from the reception desk at Wiltshire Council, Bourne Hill, Salisbury SP1 3UZ or the reception desk at Salisbury City Council, The Guildhall, Market Place, Salisbury SP1 1JH.

Potential applicants may request to have an informal chat with Tom before completing the online application form by emailing prideinplace@wiltshire.gov.uk.

The closing date for Community Board member applications is midnight on Wednesday 24 June 2026.