Issue - meetings

Portfolio Holder for Growth and Prosperity is to submit a report outlining a bid for funds from The Rural England Prosperity Fund.

Cabinet:

(1)  APPROVED the continuation of work to develop an evidence-based submission including a Rural Capital Grants Scheme to draw down £400k funding allocated to Melton Borough Council via the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF).

(2)  DELEGATED authority be given to the Director for Growth and Regeneration in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Growth and Prosperity, to finalise and submit the final REPF submission as an addendum to the Council’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund and application, and arrange appropriate administrative arrangements for delivery of the fund.

The Regeneration Manager, Lee Byrne, introduced the report, the purpose of which is to provide Members with an overview of the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF), update on the progress made in developing a bid and to seek approval to further explore opportunities around the pooling of resources and submission of the bid.

The Portfolio Holder for Growth and Prosperity, Councillor Rob Bindloss, confirmed that the fund sets out to support rural businesses such as farm diversification and the empowerment and cohesion of rural communities. This includes digital infrastructure, supporting village halls, pubs, post offices which are the hubs of small communities.  Councillor Bindloss advised that to achieve a strong bid and a successful application we would work closely with our communities, stakeholders and partners and those living in the communities to address the needs of the Borough.

The Leader, Councillor Joe Orson, thanked Councillor Bindloss and Mr Byrne for the report and also thanked the local MP Mrs Alicia Kearns who had been instrumental in Melton Borough Council getting this funding.

The Deputy Leader, Councillor Malise Graham, requested that the Country Land and Business Association be included on the list of stakeholders, and he would share the contact details with Mr Byrne after the meeting. Councill Graham also declared himself a Member of the Country Land and Business Association.

The Portfolio Holder for Climate, Access, and Engagement, Councillor Alison Freer raised concerns about the resources required for taking the fund to the communities, and that the staff involved would need assurances that they would be supported with further resources. Councillor Bindloss commented that the mechanisms and experience gained from the UKSPF bid would be considered.

Cabinet:

(1)  APPROVED the continuation of work to develop an evidence-based submission including a Rural Capital Grants Scheme to draw down £400k funding allocated to Melton Borough Council via the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF).

(2)  DELEGATED authority be given to the Director for Growth and Regeneration in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Growth and Prosperity, to finalise and submit the final REPF submission as an addendum to the Council’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund and application and arrange appropriate administrative arrangements for delivery of the fund.

Reasons for Recommendations:

The management and delivery of the REPF scheme will support the Council to deliver on its Corporate Priorities and in particular:

a)    Priority 1: Excellent services positively impacting on our communities

b)    Priority 3: Delivering sustainable and inclusive growth in Melton

c)     Priority 4: Protect our climate and enhance our rural, natural environment

d)    Priority 6: Connected with and led by our community.

It would provide a direct boost towards the local economy and communities through providing capital grants to business and eligible community groups where certain conditions are met.

To enhance the reach and impact of the aspirations set out within the Council’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund Investment Plan.