SOLIHULL groups are being invited to bid for a share of nearly £400,000 to improve their neighbourhoods.
Solihull Council has released funds comes from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) for community groups across Elmdon, Knowle, Shirley East, Shirley South and St Alphege.
The money is collected from new developments as part of the normal planning process and it is intended to support community projects in areas where development has taken place.
Previously, funds have 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 five wards.
Councillor Wazma Qais, cabinet member for Communities, said: “With nearly £400,000 available this year, this is a fantastic opportunity to come up with ideas to benefit the local area and wider community.
“It’s not just community groups that can apply – bids are open to a wide variety of organisations, and could include residents’ associations, registered charities, state schools or statutory infrastructure providers.
“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.
The deadline for applications is May 22.
For more visit the Neighbourhood Proportion section of the Council website or contact the CIL team via [email protected] or call on 0121 704 8008.
