People Powered Places is London Borough of Newham's flagship programme of participatory budgeting and is a beacon of best practice in participatory democracy. The programme has become one of the largest participatory budgeting initiatives in the UK, delivering lasting transformation with more than 300 projects funded that have had real impact on the borough.
The programme has funding to distribute to community projects. This is funded through Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) which is a Levy from new developments in the borough. They support community projects aimed at improving local neighbourhoods. In this cycle, the programme has ringfenced funds, with 50% going to Voluntary, Community and Faith Sector organisations, 25% to resident-led projects and 25% to youth-led projects.
We are pleased to announce we are continuing our partnership with the Royal Docks Team who are contributing £80,000 of funding to Beckton & Royal Docks and Custom House & Canning Town.
People Powered Places 2025-27
In February 2025, Cabinet agreed to fund another two-year cycle of People Powered Places, giving funding to resident, youth-led and Voluntary, Community and Faith Sector funded projects. You can find out all information here.
The 2025/27 People Powered Places cycle launched on 3 June 2025 with The Big Launch event at East Ham Town Hall, 5.30 - 8.00pm.
Between 3 and 22 June 2025, 2,900 residents choose their neighbourhood priorities, shaping the direction of funded projects in each area. These priorities align with Newham Council’s ‘Building a Fairer Newham’ Corporate Plan, aiming to collectively achieve Newham's goals. You can find out which priorities your neighbourhood chose on Newham Co-Create.
Between 18 July and 21 September, the programme received 474 applications for funding. These projects were shortlisted by resident-led Working Groups and underwent a feasibility assessment by Council services.
435 projects went to The Big Vote. Over 2,000 residents attended a Big Vote event held across Newham. We are currently verifying the votes. Successful projects will be announced in February 2026.
If you would like any more information, please visit Newham Co-Create or email peoplepoweredplaces@newham.gov.uk.
