Hyndburn Borough Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Sami Smithson as the new independent Chair of the Neighbourhoods Board. A former Squadron Leader in the Royal Air Force and now Chair of Accrington Stanley Women Football Club, Sami brings a wealth of leadership experience in community engagement, regeneration projects and organisational transformation.
The appointment follows an open invitation for expressions of interest and a formal interview process.
Council Leader Munsif Dad said:
“We are delighted to welcome Sami as Chair of the Neighbourhoods Board. She brings a wide range of experience and strong local knowledge, and we look forward to working with her to deliver real benefits for our communities.”
Sami Smithson said:
“As someone born and raised in one of Hyndburn’s most socially deprived communities, I understand both the challenges we face and the opportunities that well-directed investment can unlock. My journey from local school pupil to international athlete and Squadron Leader in the Royal Air Force, and now as Chair of Accrington Stanley Women Football Club, has shown me the importance of strong leadership and community engagement. I look forward to working with the Board to ensure the £20 million Plan for Neighbourhoods investment truly reflects local needs and aspirations.”
The Neighbourhoods Board plays a key role in shaping how government’s Plan for Neighbourhoods funding will be invested in Accrington. This national programme provides up to £20 million over ten years. Work is already underway to prepare a Regeneration Plan, which will be submitted later this year. If approved, the first funding is expected to be available from April 2026.
