Issue - meetings

The Deputy Chief Executive submitted a report updating Members on the current positon of Section106 Agreements. 

The Infrastructure, Contributions and Spend Manager provided a summary of the report and referred Members to the exempt Essential Reference Paper “B” detailing the contribution allocations, the planning application, location, obligation, wording, timescale for allocation and RAG (Red, Amber Green) rating for each unallocated contribution in order to facilitate the distribution of contributions for community use.  She provided a summary of how the spend was monitored and ongoing negotiations with developers and Officers in relation to potential allocations.  The Infrastructure, Contributions and Spend Manager confirmed that there were currently no allocations that the Council might have to return to the developers.

Councillor A Curtis welcomed the report.  He emphasised the role to be played by Members in relation to publishing funds available for use in their wards.  The Infrastructure, Contributions and Spend Manager confirmed that she was in touch with Town and Parish Councils to discuss how monies could be spent and explained the restrictions in relation to the use of Section 106 monies.  The Deputy Chief Executive further explained that monies could only be allocated to “named projects”. 

Councillor L Corpe sought and was provided with clarification on how community groups could submit “expressions of interest”.   

Councillor A Curtis sought clarification on what Members could do in advance to engage with the public in identifying a pool of ideas of potential schemes which might benefit from Section 106 monies.  This was provided.

Members debated the issue of requests by developers to minimise their contributions because of unforeseen circumstances which compromised the viability of their schemes.  Councillor A Curtis asked whether Members could receive a report next year on ideas and projects so that Members could engage with other external groups.  This was supported.  

It was moved by Councillor A Alder and seconded by Councillor T Stowe that the report be received and that a progress report be submitted to Members next year. After being put to the meeting and a vote taken, the motion was declared CARRIED. 

RESOLVED – that (A) the report be received and

(B)   Members be provided with a progress report next year.