There was general agreement among delegates that it is now essential for local communities to be given new roles by central and local government in formulating strategies, decision making and the delivery of services. The difficulty in achieving these objectives was reflected in presentations that described the shortcoming in existing practice and the obstacles still to be overcome (especially by speakers associated with the JRF Neighbourhood Programme). At the same time, and sometimes from the same speakers, there were up-beat accounts of what could be achieved when appropriate strategies and support are in place. It was emphasised that the word ‘community’ is more widely used and understood in Wales than ‘neighbourhood’, but in the context of regeneration and tackling deprivation the terms are synonymous.