GROUPS in Solihull can now bid for a share of more than £440,000 to improve their neighbourhoods.
This funding comes from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) which is available for community groups in 10 wards, including Blythe, Dorridge, Elmdon, Knowle, Lyndon, Olton, Shirley East, Shirley South, Silhill and St Alphege.
The money is collected from new developments as part of the normal planning process. It is intended to support community projects in areas where development has taken place.
The CIL money collected in 2023/24 has been added to any unallocated funds from previous years. The funds are either distributed directly to 13 parish and town councils in the borough or placed into ‘ward pots’ (in areas without a parish council).
The CIL fund is now open to ‘bids’ from local communities in the 10 wards. They must be submitted by Friday November 1 2024.
Councillor Wazma Qais, Solihull Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “With over £400,000 available this year, this is a great opportunity for community groups to come up with ideas to benefit their local area and wider community.
“CIL funds can make a real difference to groups and neighbourhoods, and I urge any interested organisations to check if they meet the requirements and then make a bid.”
To be considered, groups and organisations must be formally constituted; have a bank account with two unrelated signatories; at least two unrelated management committee members if they are an unincorporated organisation or a voluntary group and show good financial management procedures, including records of income and expenditure.
