Purpose

To approve the programmes and release the capital and revenue required to deliver them.

Decision

RESOLVED that Cabinet Recommends to Full Council:

1. to approve the development of a Breckland Town Regeneration Programme focused on addressing long-term vacant and derelict properties within the district's market towns and the creation of a dedicated Pride in Place Team to coordinate and deliver environmental enhancement projects across villages, market towns and rural communities.
2. Authorises officers to make bids to external funding programmes and develop partnership opportunities.
3. Allocates an initial capital and revenue budget of £650,000 and £350,000 respectively to fund the Breckland Town Regeneration Programme and Pride in Place Team.
4. Delegates authority to the Deputy Chief Executive and Deputy Leader to approve expenditure up to programme budgets of £650,000 capital and £350,000 revenue, in accordance with the Council's Constitution and Financial Regulations.

Reasons for the decision

The proposals represent a proactive investment in Breckland's places. In addition to improving the appearance of communities, they will help stimulate economic activity, support local businesses, attract inward investment, improve resident satisfaction and create conditions for long-term sustainable growth.

Pride in place is built through visible action. Residents judge the success of public services not only by major investments but also by the everyday quality of the places in which they live.

By investing in the regeneration of derelict buildings within our market towns and establishing a dedicated Pride in Place Team to tackle smaller environmental issues across villages and rural communities, the Council has an opportunity to deliver highly visible improvements that strengthen community identity, support economic growth and restore confidence in the places people call home.

Alternative options considered

·         Approve the targeted investment to enable visible improvements to Breckland’s towns and communities supporting important regeneration across the district.

·         Do nothing