Agenda item

RESOLVED: Cabinet considered the recommendations provided by the Spending Panel and allocated funding to Corporate Projects as set out in Option 1 and the attached project list at Appendix 1.

REASON FOR DECISION: To ensure that CIL monies collected are being spent in accordance with CIL legislation and local policy on appropriate infrastructure projects and ensure spend is within the available funding envelope.

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Cabinet noted that the Regeneration and Development Panel had considered this item and supported the Cabinet Recommendations.

The Planning Control Manager presented the report and explained that this was the first allocation of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding to be considered under the new governance arrangements. Five projects had originally been submitted for Strategic CIL funding requiring Cabinet approval. Option 1, as set out in the report, was the recommended option. This option provided funding for all strategic projects but proposed a reduced allocation towards the coastal defence works, recognising that the scheme would be delivered in phases and could be considered for future rounds of funding.

It was further reported that, since the options had been considered by the Regeneration and Development Panel, the Guildhall Project had been withdrawn from the process, leaving four projects for Cabinet's consideration.

Under Standing Order 34, Councillor Kemp addressed Cabinet and emphasised the importance of supporting the proposed improvements to the Ferry service. She stated that the service was a vital asset for the town, providing an important link between two communities, supporting future development and offering safer, more accessible and modern facilities. She also highlighted the long-term benefits of the improvements and the value for money they would provide.

Under Standing Order 34, Councillor de Winton addressed Cabinet in his capacity as the Council appointed Fire Service Champion. He advised that he had established a strong working relationship with the Fire Service and explained that the proposed redevelopment and improvement of the fire station was essential to support future development in the area. He highlighted the shortage of retained firefighters and the lack of suitable training facilities. Councillor de Winton informed Cabinet that Norfolk County Council match funding was expected to be available, as this had been approved prior to the change in administration. He outlined the benefits of the proposed training facility and referred to plans for the establishment of a Fire Service cadet squad.

The Chair thanked Councillor de Winton for his ongoing work with the Fire Service and acknowledged the importance of maintaining a strong partnership with the organisation.

Councillor Ring expressed concern regarding the availability of Norfolk County Council match funding, given the change in administration, and suggested that it may be at risk.  In response, Councillor de Winton explained that the funding commitment for the Fire Service project had been agreed prior to the change in administration. Councillor Kemp added that officers were currently preparing a business case in support of the Ferry project.

Councillor de Whalley expressed his support for Option 1 and thanked the officers involved in the development of the proposals.

Councillor Moriarty also thanked the officers involved and commented that the introduction of the new governance arrangements had represented a learning process for all involved. He further explained that, following developments since the recommendations had been presented to the Regeneration and Development Panel, including the withdrawal of the Guildhall Project, he had discussed this with the Chair of the Panel.

Councillor Squire expressed her support for Option 1. Whilst noting that coastal defences fell within her Portfolio responsibilities, she acknowledged that there would be future opportunities to secure funding for that project. She also emphasised the importance of the Fire Service project, highlighting the continuing risks posed by fire, including wildfires.

RESOLVED: Cabinet considered the recommendations provided by the Spending Panel and allocated funding to Corporate Projects as set out in Option 1 and the attached project list at Appendix 1.

REASON FOR DECISION: To ensure that CIL monies collected are being spent in accordance with CIL legislation and local policy on appropriate infrastructure projects and ensure spend is within the available funding envelope.