Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: February 13, 2025

Purpose:

Content: (1)  That progress made on delivering the Darwen Town Deal Programme be noted.   (2)  That the Government’s decision to extend Town Deal Programme delivery timescales from March 2026 to March 2027 be welcomed.   (3)  That the proposed changes to the Darwen Town Deal Programme, as approved by the Darwen Town Deal Board on 23rd January 2025, and as set out in section 6 of the report be approved.   (4)  That a Project Adjustment Request to secure Government approval to realign Town Deal funding within the agreed overall funding allocation for Darwen be submitted.   (5)  That the role of the Council, as accountable body for the Darwen Town Deal, the Council’s commitment to co-invest up to £12.5m in capital funding support for the Town Deal Investment Programme; and the key role the Council performs in continuing to provide strategic advice, and programme and financial management to support the Board and the delivery of the Investment Programme be noted.   (6)  That delegated authority be granted to the Strategic Director of Growth and Development and the Strategic Director of Finance and Resources, in conjunction with the Executive Member for Growth and Development and the Executive Member for Finance and Governance, to drawdown and finalise the Council’s capital funding contribution and agreement to help deliver Perspex International’s new Polymerisation Manufacturing Facility.  That it be noted this would include a grant funding payment of £3.5m, including an agreed contribution of £500,000 from the Council’s capital programme.  This project had been subject to an agreed business case with Government and payment was subject to confirming the relevant Subsidy Control treatment.   (7)  That it be noted that the Darwen Market and Civic Quarter Development was currently being finalised, and a further report would be submitted to a future meeting to consider and approve the project’s procurement and delivery strategy and seek approval to draw down the Council’s agreed capital funding contribution.