The Fells and Solway Community Panel of Cumberland Council met on Monday, 24 June 2024, to discuss various community investment projects, updates on local initiatives, and the adoption of a new Neighbourhood Investment Plan (NIP). The panel approved funding for several community projects and agreed on actions to enhance community resilience and support local facilities.

Investing in our Neighbourhood Report

The panel reviewed the current position of the Neighbourhood Investment Fund allocation. The Community Development Officer presented three investment applications for approval:

• North Allerdale Development Trust (NADT): Funding was approved to support the Silloth Friday Night Project and Kirkbride Youth Group.
• Chrysalis (Cumbria) Ltd: Funding was approved for expanding outreach and holiday provision activities, including new IT equipment.
• Jubilee Walk, Aspatria: Funding was approved for improvement works, including installing a soak away and resurfacing.

The panel also discussed and adopted a draft Neighbourhood Investment Plan (NIP), which outlines the framework for community panels and networks, and agreed on actions to focus on community resilience and support for community facilities.

Community Panel Update

The Area Planning Manager provided an update on recent activities within the Fells and Solway area. Recruitment for co-opted members to the panel received a positive response, with final appointments to be made at the June panel meeting. The Community Development Officer from Active Cumbria encouraged members to join the 'Ramblers Wellbeing Walks' and discussed the benefits of inviting officers from the Local Focus Hub to a future meeting to address community safety and rural crime.

Highways and Transport Strategic Board Update

The Highways Network Manager updated the panel on items considered at the previous Highways and Transport Strategic Board meeting, including the Capital Programme Update and the Highways Funding Allocation for 2024-25.

Highways Matters

The Highways Network Manager provided an update on upcoming works and schemes in the Fells and Solway area, including intended timescales and allocations.

Date and Time of Next Meeting

The panel noted the suggested future meeting dates, with final dates to be confirmed at the Annual Meeting of Cumberland Council on 15 May 2024.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the Minutes Public Pack 14032024 Fells and Solway Community Panel.