Brits reveal top activities they want to improve their community as locals dream of friendlier neighborhoods

FREE parking lots, green spaces, and recycling bins are top of the list of things adults want to improve their community.

Thousands of Britons also want to see more independent shops and exhibitions to make their neighborhood more friendly.

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A survey found that wellness centers, libraries and bee houses are also one of the top priorities for improving local areas.

The National Lottery has found that almost half of Britons believe that improvements are not made to their neighborhoods regularly enough.

On average, it takes 17 months to implement a change, with 41% of people noticing improvements – including more green space.

The study of 2,000 people found that 16% want more programs and social venues and 18% want a “friendlier” neighborhood.

Half of those surveyed believe the improvements would result in a more cheerful atmosphere and believe that the cafes and parks help the community.

Ros Kerslake, CEO of the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Chairman of the National Lottery Forum, said: “The 27 years we fund have transformed communities, made dreams come true and improved the lives of millions of people.

“As we come out of what has been a desperately difficult time, we want to instill hope and encourage communities to imagine what they could accomplish with a helping hand.

“With £ 30million raised for good causes each week, we have available grants of £ 3,000-5million.

“By coming together as communities and as a nation, we can build, dream and create to change our future for the better and for generations to come. “

Almost half of those polled said the pandemic had made people more interested in their community and for 29% it had made them think about how to make a difference.

An additional 24% are personally involved in roles within their community, including being part of neighborhood watch, leading a social media group, and helping at sporting and religious events.

To celebrate the 636,000 projects supported by the National Lottery over the past 27 years, four word-based installations – Build, Dream, Create, Change – are unveiled in London, Cardiff, Edinburgh and Antrim.

Famous faces Alexandra Burke, Sir Chris Hoy, Nadine Coyle and Liam Reardon will unveil works of art which were each created using 636 National Lottery balls by art collective Greyworld and inspired by funded projects.

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