Purpose

To consider the recommendations of the report in relation to the allocation of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Funds for 2026.

Decision

It was RESOLVED that the Cabinet APPROVED:

a)    The recommendations for the allocation of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding, in accordance with the CIL Spending Protocol, as set out in Appendices A and B;

b)    That the funding of £75,000 previously allocated in 2024 towards Alton Tennis Club Padel Court Plan be reallocated to their new canopy project to allow all year round tennis as detailed in paragraph 5.5;

d)    That any decision to remove CIL allocations from ‘at risk’ projects as detailed in paragraph 8.2 be delegated to the Executive Director of Operations in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Regulation and Enforcement;

The Cabinet also NOTED:

e)       The proposed allocation of strategic CIL received from the Land   East of Horndean development for education purposes as detailed in paragraph 6.3 and;

f)        The progress of all projects allocated CIL funding since 2021 (Appendix D), with many completed providing significant benefits for local communities.

Reasons for the Decision

To present to the Cabinet the recommendations for the allocation of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding for the 2026 spending application process and to recommend the use of the CIL funding in accordance with the CIL spending protocol for the new school at Hazleton Farm.

Alternative Options Considered

Option 1: Do nothing – No allocation of CIL funds 

This option was not recommended on the basis that there is a great opportunity to fund and help deliver infrastructure projects that are of high value to local communities, helping to enrich lives. Doing so helps demonstrate that whilst not solving all problems by any means, there is a worthwhile contribution from development towards infrastructure provision.? To not do so would be failing those the money would benefit.

Option 2: Allocate CIL funds 

This was the only option that enables the Council to assist with the delivery of key infrastructure projects in the district and helps to support local communities. As set out in the Protocol, it is important the Council does so in line with legislation.