APPLICATIONS are open for Solihull groups to secure funds to improve their local neighbourhoods.
A share of more than £250,000, which comes from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), is available for community groups in six wards – Blythe, Lyndon, Shirley South, Shirley West, Silhill and St Alphege.
The amount if funding available for each ward is – Blythe £13,557.05, Lyndon £18,890.91, Shirley South £80,192.49, Shirley West £27,171.01, Silhill £81,243.84 and St Alphege £32,407.39.
The money is collected from new developments as part of the normal planning process.
It is meant to support community projects in areas where development has taken place.
The CIL money collected in 2022/23 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).
Councillor Wazma Qais, cabinet member for Leisure and Communities, said: “This is a great opportunity for community groups and neighbourhoods to come up with ideas to benefit their local community.
“This money can make a real difference to community groups and neighbourhoods, and I encourage any interested community groups and 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.
The deadline for applications is November 3.
For more information visit the Council’s or contact the CIL team via [email protected] or call on 0121 704 8008.
