Agenda item

The Area Council Manager updated Members with regard to the North Area Council Stronger Communities Grant application and allocation process; the outcome of the grant panel meeting and the projects approved for funding; identified unallocated funding for 2016/17 and 2017/18 and how it will be utilised together with the performance management and monitoring arrangements for successful projects.

It was highlighted that 7 applications had been received, an evaluation meeting took place on 28^th February.  Following robust and thorough discussions the applications were scored by Panel Members.  Funding was allocated to 5 projects, totalling £64,658, leaving a significant unallocated underspend of £65,108.50. 

Members expressed concern regarding the unallocated funding but assurances on recommendation from the Grants Panel representatives were given that the funding has been agreed for grant purposes and will be made available going forward.  A discussion followed regarding the timeliness of the next round of funding. 

RESOLVED that:  

(i)            Members note the NAC Stronger Communities Grant update and the projects that have been approved for funding;

(ii)          Members agree the performance and monitoring arrangements outlined in Section 7 of the report;

(iii)         Members agreed to a second round of funding that will be available from October 2017, with a 12 month delivery period.  This round will be advertised over the summer. 

(iv)         Members note the unallocated £65,108.50 (including carry forward from 2016/17) and that this will not be rolled forward to 2018/19.