Billions announced as rural Devon still waits for real changeLabour’s £5 billion “Pride in Place” pledge has raised hopes - and doubtsView Image Exmoor farmer James WrightLabour ministers last week announced a £5 billion Pride in Place programme, promising long-term investment in struggling neighbourhoods, but critics in the South West warn the scheme raises more questions than answers. ‌While the Government insists the new funding marks a step change, sceptics argue it looks more like a re-branding exercise. ‌He pointed to the last Budget, where only one major project in the South West received funding despite billions being allocated to the North and Midlands. Transport funding and investment in our high streets is desperately needed.”Mr Wright called for urgent clarity on whether rural areas like Exmoor, West Somerset and Devon will benefit. If Labour are serious, they need to prove it by backing projects in the South West, not just where it is politically useful.”