Published Monday, 16th September 2019
Residents, businesses and local community groups are being asked to share their views on how money raised from new developments could be spent to improve their local area.
Known as the “Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Local Fund”, it can be spent on a wide range of projects, from improving a community hall or providing new playground equipment at a local green space, to upgrading walking and cycling routes to local shops and schools.
Reigate & Banstead Borough Council is holding a consultation which runs until Sunday 13 October to understand what the community’s priorities are for making improvements and to seek their suggestions for particular projects.
When new development is built, the Council collects money from developers through the CIL to fund the infrastructure, facilities and services needed to support the cumulative effect that development can have on the area.
Most of the money is used to fund large schemes – like schools, healthcare and transport. However a proportion is made available to spend on smaller local projects in the neighbourhoods where development has been built.
Tell us your views
Cllr Richard Biggs, Executive Member for Planning Policy, said: “Our CIL Local Fund gives communities an opportunity to inform how money we collect from developers is spent to improve and enhance the facilities and services in their neighbourhood, making sure that we all feel the benefits that new development can bring.
“Examples of projects delivered through the fund include Lower Kingswood Church hall kitchen, Fir Tree Road vehicle activated speed signs and improvements to Reigate Castle grounds.
“So, whether you have an idea for a specific project that needs funding or just want to tell us which services and facilities should be enhanced in your area, we want to hear your views.”
Take part online at: www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk/cillocalfund or pick up a form the Town Hall or your local library.
Following the consultation, Council officers and ward members will work together to prioritise schemes, based on feedback from the local community and infrastructure providers. Money will be allocated to the schemes as it becomes available. In Horley and Salfords and Sidlow, money collected into the CIL Local Fund is passed to the Town or Parish Council to decide how it will be spent in those areas.