BCP Council Plans to Scrap Ward Improvement Fund Amid Budget Cuts
BCP Council will cut the ward improvement fund, saving £317,000 in the next budget.
Politics
BCP Council, Ward Improvement Fund, Budget Cuts, Community Projects, Penn Hill, Christchurch
BCP Council: They started a scheme for the 2024/25 budget. Each councillor got £4,000 to help their ward. The idea was to support projects residents wanted.
But now, they plan to save £317,000 by cutting this fund. This is part of a larger £7.8 million budget cut.
This year, only about £100,000 has been used. It seems only a third of councillors have spent their funds.
Any leftover money from 2024/25 can be used in future years, according to council officials.
Sandra Moore, a cabinet member, said they still have funds to allocate. She encourages groups and councillors to apply. These funds can really help small community projects.
She also mentioned that some groups might prefer to apply for the community infrastructure levy instead. They will keep reviewing this fund.
The council can’t comment on how many have applied while applications are still open. They urge eligible groups and councillors to apply before the February 21 deadline.
Eligible groups can reach out to their ward councillor to apply for the fund.
So far, £500 has gone to a monthly bipolar support group in Penn Hill. It helps sufferers and their carers.
Another £4,000 funded activities for 87 kids in the Christchurch Somerford Scout group. This covered new equipment and utilities.
Additionally, £260 was spent on litter-picking gear, seeds for a community garden, and festive lights for two trees.
Funding is still available for small voluntary groups with incomes under £20,000. These groups must benefit residents in their ward.