Decision details

RESOLVED:

(i)               That the revised CIL Expenditure Framework and communication strategy attached at Appendix 2 and 3 be adopted;

(ii)             That the allocations and approach to strategic element of CIL be approved; and

(iii)            That the progression of the five identified projects be approved, noting that formal decision making in respect of projects as they progress will be in accordance with the Council’s Constitution and Financial Regulations.

KEY DECISION:

Yes.

PORTFOLIO:

Planning and Economy

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS CONSIDERED/REJECTED:

As set out in the report.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST:

None.

DISCUSSION:

The Portfolio Holder for Planning and Economy introduced the report reporting that the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) was an important source of funding for local infrastructure projects.  The report explained the process in which decisions would be made to allocate CIL funding and provide infrastructure in line with the priorities of the Corporate Plan.

The identification process to fund of five major projects, addressing local need was set out and covered a wide geographical spread.  £4.5m was proposed to be allocated to progress these projects, leaving around £4.5m of CIL funds for future consideration.  To support cultural development, it was proposed to allocate £150k to this sector as well as a further 2% of future CIL receipts for the life of the current Corporate Plan.  Finally, a further £1m was proposed to be made available to be made available to fund bids to local small scale infrastructure projects, following a similar process to that of the previous year. 

The Planning Implementation and Monitoring Team Leader reported that work would be carried out to inform the Town and Parish Councils of the funding opportunity and a briefing would be held with them on how to submit bids.

A non Cabinet member sought that the application process available to towns and parishes be made as simple as possible, to aid the submission of their applications.  Other members spoke in support of the proposed funding becoming available in order to support the local community.