The Finance, Policy and Resources Committee of Richmond upon Thames Council met on Monday, 24 June 2024, to discuss several key issues, including the allocation of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding, decarbonisation projects, and additional budget requests. The committee approved funding allocations for community projects and discussed the next steps for the decarbonisation of Twickenham Civic Centre.

Community Fund (Round 5)

The committee approved the allocation of £577,267 in Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding to ten community organisations. The Assistant Chief Executive introduced the report, highlighting the collaborative efforts with community and voluntary sector groups to develop bid proposals. Nigel Cole from Teddington Theatre Club made a case for funding LED lighting to reduce the Theatre's carbon footprint and operational costs. Despite the compelling arguments, the committee noted the limited funds available and encouraged the Theatre Club to bid again in future funding rounds.

Councillor Richard Bennett raised concerns about the perceived bias in successful funding bids, noting that community centres received the majority of the funding. The committee resolved to approve the recommended allocations and delegated authority to the Assistant Chief Executive to make any necessary adjustments and continue discussions with Teddington Theatre Club for future bids.

Decarbonisation and Improvements to Twickenham Civic Centre

The Assistant Director of Housing and Regeneration (Property Services) presented the Stage 2 business case for decarbonising Twickenham Civic Centre. The project includes consolidating and improving customer reception and workspace, as well as refurbishing York House Annex. The committee expressed satisfaction with the previous phase and welcomed the project, which aligns with Richmond’s Climate Emergency Strategy.

The committee discussed the project's costs, governance arrangements, and associated risks. The Assistant Director explained the new Corporate Project Office's role in monitoring the project and the potential for grant funding through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme. The committee resolved to agree on the project's scope, proposed space allocation, and a positive capital budget addition of £350,000 for 2024/25 to continue development up to RIBA Stage 3 design and tender stage.

Additional Budget Requests

The Executive Director of Finance presented a report on additional budget requests. The committee approved the funding set out in the report, including £530,900 for the Community Fund Round 5 and £350,000 for Twickenham Civic Centre improvements. The total requested funding amounted to £880,900 in capital and £140,800 in revenue.

Forward Plan

The committee noted the contents of the Forward Plan, including upcoming reports on the Nighttime Strategy expected in June and the Change Programme in September.

For more details, you can refer to the Minutes Public Pack 25042024 Finance Policy and Resources Committee.