Two housing estates in Kent could be in for an unexpected facelift after being selected as part of a “trailblazing neighbourhood” scheme dishing out £20m over the next decade.

Various regeneration schemes were announced during the government's Spending Review last week as Chancellor Rachel Reeves set out her stall for "community-led" renewal efforts up and down the country.

Most of the 25 selected areas earmarked as “trailblazer neighbourhoods” lie in the north of England, with another five in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

However, it’s now been revealed Senacre and Park Wood in Maidstone have been named by the government as recipients of the funds - and are the only two areas in Kent to be selected.

The purpose, the treasury says, is to “drive forward the changes that people want to see in their neighbourhoods”.

The government adds the money would “support improvements that people can see on their doorstep, champion local leadership, foster community engagement and strengthen social cohesion”.

Cllr Dan Wilkinson (Lab), who represents Park Wood and Mangravat Ward told KentOnline he was excited by the “tremendous opportunities” it brings after decades of under-investment in Park Wood and Senacre but awaited more specifics.

“While details are still emerging — and we’re looking forward to understanding the delivery mechanisms and any conditions — what we do know is that this funding will enable community-driven change,” he explained.

“Importantly, it means that local people will be at the heart of the decision-making process — strengthening community leadership, fostering engagement, and making sure the improvements reflect the real priorities of those who live here.

He added: “We’re proud to be a strong voice for the people we represent, and we’re looking forward to working alongside our community to make the most of this opportunity."

Although the government has set aside £500m to support trailblazer neighbourhoods, it has not yet announced any details on how the money will be spent, or when.

Cllr Wilkinson hopes it will be spent addressing longstanding issues around the “state of the housing, the levels of crime and anti-social behaviour, the generally poor state of cleanliness and excess of litter, and the limited opportunities for young people”.

He added: “This investment could be used to improve parks and public spaces, with better lighting, play areas, and walking trails to make the area cleaner, safer, and more welcoming.

“It could tackle long-standing issues like potholes, poor pavements, and street safety, while addressing crime and anti-social behaviour with targeted CCTV and improved lighting.

“Housing conditions need urgent attention too – especially damp, disrepair, and rising energy costs. The funding could support insulation schemes, clean-up projects, and environmental improvements that make a real difference to health and quality of life.

“At the same time, I think it's important to build on the work being done by local organisations like Fusion Healthy Living Centre.

“There are already strong foundations in place around youth support, mental health, skills, wellbeing, and community development – and rather than duplicating this work, I would want to see the new funding used to strengthen and supplement it.

“That would mean more opportunities for young people, improved access to mental health support, expanded skills training and enterprise support, and investment in community leadership.”

Despite the massive cash boost, Cllr Wilkinson said they needed to be “realistic”.

“The funding is a significant amount, but it won’t solve everything,” he added.

“That’s why careful planning, local partnerships, and meaningful resident involvement will be key to making the biggest and most lasting impact.

“As I've said, many details are yet to be revealed, but I was particularly struck by the emphasis on community leadership which itself comes with obvious benefits.

“The funding provides a chance to invest not just in buildings or services, but in people – and to make Park Wood a place where everyone feels proud to live.

READ MORE: Exclusive look at £60m Shepway regeneration progress

Park Wood has already seen a massive regeneration by Golding Homes of its housing stock. The housing association spent £50m between 2006 and 2018 creating new housing.

Currently, it is embarked on a similar £60m regeneration of its housing stock in nearby Shepway.

Cllr Malcolm McKay, who represents Senacre, agreed with his Labour colleague.

He said: “This is excellent news, though to be honest, it has come as a very pleasant surprise.”

“Senacre is not a particularly deprived area. The quality of most of the housing - it was built as a council estate - is of a high quality.

“What we are lacking is a village hall or community centre.

“There is no detail yet of what the money will be spent, but I very much hope the community does get a say in where the money goes.”