Agenda item

That:

·       Members approve CIL funding for the following schemes detailed in Table 1 of this report and summarised in the table below for 2025/2026:

·       The final funding and implementation of the 2 agreed projects is delegated to the Director of Finance, in consultation with the Lead Members for Resources and Planning Policy and Infrastructure, to determine to enable the agreed projects to be progressed and implemented. 

Councillor Giles-Medhurst introduced the report and moved the recommendations, summarizing the applications received and the officer assessments undertaken agains the Council’s CIL governance framework.

The motion was seconded by Councillor Price.

During debate, Members discussed procedural and policy matters relating to the use of CIL funding, including: the distinction between capital and revenue expenditure, the treatment of VAT within CIL-funded projects, the importance of ensuring that applications were supported by appropriate documentation and value for money considerations and the need for clarity and consistency within the Council’s CIL Policy to avoid unintended barriers for community organisations.

Specific reference was made to Beryl Bikes scheme, with Members noting assurances that the Council would not incur ongoing revenue liabilities, as commitments were borne by the operator. Members also discussed an application relating to Rickmansworth Sports Centre, where it was explained that delays had arisen due to procedural matters and the need for additional information, with officers having worked with the applicant to resolve these issues.

Members noted that revisiting and updating the Council’s CIL policy could improve accessibility for a wider range of organisation in future rounds.

On being put to the Council, the motion was declared CARRIED by the Chair with the voting being by General Assent.