Decision details

a) To approve the future approach to community development activity.

b) Note updates regarding implementation of the community facilities strategy.

Matter for Decision

As part of the approval of the Council’s Building Stronger Communities strategy (BSCS) in June 2017, officers were asked to feedback in January 2018 on progress with delivering the strategy; also to review the future approach to community development work and in particular Neighbourhood Community Partnerships & Projects (NCPs).

The Officer’s report also provided an update on the Community Centres Strategy work plan.

Decision of Executive Councillor for Communities

       i.          Approved the revised approach and resourcing of the Council’s outreach community development work as outlined in section 4 of the Officer’s report.

     ii.          Approved the approach to the funding and support for NCPs from 2018/19 as outlined in section 5 of the Officer’s report.

Reason for the Decision

As set out in the Officer’s report.

Any Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

Not applicable.

Scrutiny Considerations

The Committee received a report from the Community Funding and Development Manager.

In response to Members’ questions:

       i.          The Community Funding and Development Manager said detailed feasibility work regarding the Meadows & Buchan Street Community Centres would be reported back to committee in June 2018.

     ii.          The Head of Community Services said Storey’s Field Community Centre was overseen by Storey’s Field Trust, established by the University of Cambridge and the Council. It was due to open in February 2018.

The City Council had a meeting planned with Clay Farm construction contract administrators (ADP) on 19 January 2018. Ward Councillors would be updated post meeting. The Community Centre was expected to open in the near future.

The Committee unanimously resolved to endorse the recommendations.

The Executive Councillor approved the recommendations.

Conflicts of Interest Declared by the Executive Councillor (and any Dispensations Granted)

No conflicts of interest were declared by the Executive Councillor.