Purpose

This report presents an application for funding under the Council’s Community Funding Programme.

Executive summary: An application to the Community Fund has been submitted by Lockswood Community and Sports Association for £1,968 for the installation of a digital clock which forms part of their electrical works due to take place in the Lockswood Community Centre Sports Hall.

Lockswood Community and Sports Association manages the thriving Lockswood Community Centre. This vibrant community facility accommodates a variety of activities including table tennis clubs, children’s gymnastics sessions, badminton, pétanque, yoga and martial arts. The Sports Hall is the main hireable area of the Community Centre, welcoming in the region of 680 people per week, many of whom are seniors or children.

The Community Association is progressing with a project to improve the lighting in the Sports Hall and plans to include the installation of a digital clock as part of these electrical works. The Hall does not currently have an easily visible clock within the Sports Hall, which makes it challenging for groups to run competitive elements or sessions that last for a specific time.

The Community Association leases the premises from Fareham Borough Council and is detailed in the Lease as being responsible for the maintenance of the fixtures and fittings. The clock is a new addition to the features available in the Centre. The Association has sought 3 quotes for works to replace the lighting and install the digital clock. The favoured quote with a local company that was able to meet the ‘summer break’ timeframes was £11,860.80, £1,968 of which was for the digital clock element.

Lockswood Community and Sports Association’s latest audited accounts identified £120,253 in reserves. However, it is important to note that as a vibrant community centre their annual costs are high, with expenditure in the previous year listed at £123,920.

The Community Association has submitted a funding application for £8,000 towards the lighting replacement to the Calisen Impact Charitable Trust, who specialise in funding sustainable energy solutions. The outcome of this application has yet to be determined. The Association is committed to funding any remaining shortfall for the project from their reserves.

Both Ward Councillors, Councillor Mrs Bayford and Councillor Daniells, are fully supportive of the application.

Decision

RESOLVED that the Executive Member for Leisure and Community approve the award of £1,968 from the Community Fund to Lockswood Community and Sports Association.