Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Head of Planning, Regeneration and Economy informing Members about the fund and setting out the criteria and timescales with regard to bid submission and to establish and agree the proposed basis and timing for bids.

The Cabinet had before it a * report of the Head of Planning, Regeneration and Economy informing Members about the fund and setting out the criteria and timescales with regard to bid submission and to establish and agree the proposed basis and timing for bids.

The Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Regeneration outlined the contents of the report stating that the report set out information about the levelling up fund, including the criteria and timescales with regard to bid submission.  It also sought to establish and agree the proposed basis and timing for bids taking into account the two parliamentary constituencies with which the Mid Devon geography was divided.  The report identified potential projects for bids for both Tiverton and Honiton Constituency and the Central Devon Constituency including the various stages of advancement of project development.  In compiling the report, officers had regard to a wide range of factors including investment criteria, discussions with other relevant Councils and greatest chance of bid success.  Endorsements from the MPs was vital to this bid process and contact has been made with both MPs. 

In the Tiverton and Honiton Constituency, it was felt that the Cullompton Town Centre relief road was an ideal project to focus on as it was also being supported by the Housing Infrastructure Fund and it was hoped that such a bid would be supported by the MP and the County Council.

He also highlighted projects that could take place in the Central Devon constituency (with other authorities) to support rural enterprise and enhance digital connectivity and that officers would continue to progress ideas for the second round of bidding.

Discussion took place with regard to if the round 1 bid was unsuccessful subsequent bids should have more local member involvement.

RESOLVED that the following be AGREED:

i)          To submit a levelling up fund bid in respect of the gap funding required to deliver the Cullompton Town Centre Relief Road and grant delegated authority to the Head of Planning, Economy and Regeneration in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Regeneration over:

a)               departure from a round 1 bid in the event that it becomes evident that there is a greater chance of success in a later round, and

b)               the extent of the inclusion within the bid of additional cycle, pedestrian and vehicular access content in relation to the Station Road corridor.

ii)         To investigate the potential to work up a bid in partnership with neighbouring authorities within the Central Devon Constituency on the themes of rural enterprise and digital connectivity for submission to a future round of the fund.

(Proposed by Cllr R J Chesterton and seconded by Cllr C R Slade)

Reason for the decision – To agree the proposed basis and timing of bids.

Note: *Report previously circulated and attached to the minutes