Purpose

MHCLG has selected Little Ilford to benefit from the Pride In Place Programme, receiving £20million of grant funding over a ten year period. Cabinet is recommended to agree to act as the accountable body for this funding and to receive the grant funds. A neighbourhood board will be established to determine how the funds are spent.

Decision

For the reasons set out in this report and its appendices, Cabinet RESOLVED to Agree:

i)  To enter into relevant agreements with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) to receive up to £20m of grant funding (comprising 63% capital and 37% revenue) for the Little Ilford Pride in Place Programme.

ii)  To delegate Authority to the Corporate Director of Inclusive Economy, Housing and Culture, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, to commence procurement, award contracts and award grants as required for the delivery of the Little Ilford Neighbourhood Plan.

iii)  To delegate Authority to the Corporate Director of Inclusive Economy, Housing and Culture, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, to enter into all arrangements (including allocation of funds) to effect the arrangements and transfer of delivery responsibility set out at paragraph 4.12  of the report

Alternatives Considered

LBN could choose not to act as the accountable body for the Pride in Place Programme and/or not accept the grant funding. This option would require the return to MHCLG of funding that has already been received and would result in Little Ilford not benefitting from the £20m investment. There does not appear to be any discernible benefit to the Council from this alternative option and so it is not recommended.