Purpose

To approve up to £7.4m Strategic
Community Infrastructure Levy capital funding to deliver public
realm and highways infrastructure improvements in and around
Neasden town centre.

Content

In considering the report Cabinet noted the
comments made by Councillors Ahmed and Dixon (as local ward
councillors for Dollis Hill) in support of the Neasden Civic
Partnership Programme.  Highlighting the
diversity, history and vibrant nature of Neasden the challenges
faced in the area, particularly in relation to social and economic inequalities were also recognised with the
proposals and funding (which it was noted included £3.1m in
capital grant funding from the Mayor of London and up to
£7.4m from Brent’s Strategic Community Infrastructure
Levy) outlined within the report therefore welcomed as a means of
focussing delivery of a programme of transformative regeneration
and sustainable development within Neasden Town Centre that would
also, it was felt, enhance the quality of life within the wider
area.
 
In outlining their support for
the programme, particular reference was made to the public realm
and highways improvements as well as potential to secure wider
environmental sustainability which had been identified along with
the engagement and collaboration undertaken with local residents,
businesses and other key stakeholders in the co-design and
development of the Neasden Town Centre Action Plan.  It was noted this would form a key element in
delivery of the programme designed to make Neasden a safer,
greener and more prosperous area for
all.
 
Consideration of the report was also supported
by a presentation from Rumi Bose (Rumi Bose Consultancy) providing
an outline of the key elements of the programme and summary of the
engagement undertaken to develop the Neasden Town Action Plan.
 
Having noted the comments made by the local
ward councillors and supporting presentation Cabinet RESOLVED:
 
(1)       
To approve up to £7.4m Strategic Community Infrastructure
Levy capital funding to deliver public realm and highways
infrastructure improvements in and around Neasden Town Centre.
 
(2)       
To note that a range of contracts for consultants and contractors
would be required to design, plan and
develop the proposed public realm, community programming and
highways improvements for the Neasden Civic Partnership
Programme.
 
(3)       
To note and endorses the proposed installation of a temporary
building for community use on top of the council-owned car park
next to 237 Neasden Lane, subject to obtaining any planning
permission and other statutory consents.
 
Eligible for call-in:
Yes
 
Deadline for submission of
call-in: 6pm on Wednesday 22 January 2025