Decision details

To update Cabinet on the allocation of £20m from the Government’s Long Term Plan for Towns fund to spend on Darlington’s urban core over the next 10 years.

The Leader of the Council and the Cabinet Member with the Stronger Communities Portfolio introduced the report (previously circulated) of the Chief Executive to inform Cabinet about the Government’s Plan for Neighbourhoods which will provide up to £20 million of funding and support over 10 years to 75 places across the UK, including Darlington, and to seek approval of recommendations to allow Officers to support the Towns Board take on the role of Neighbourhood Board and make the required submission to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) by 22 April.

The submitted report stated that a prospectus for Plan for Neighbourhoods was published on 5 March 2025, which outlined the new approach and confirming that Darlington is one of the 75 eligible authorities. It was reported that £20 million will be provided to the Council over the next 10 years.

The submitted report also highlighted that the Council was required to support the restructuring of the Towns Board to become a Neighbourhood Board, to develop a 10-year Regeneration Plan and provide oversight of its delivery.

Focus was given to the role and remit of the Neighbourhood Board and how greater emphasis could be placed on community involvement.

RESOLVED - (a) That a review of the Towns Board membership and structure ,to enable it to discharge to role of the ‘Neighbourhood Board’, be approved, and for the required submission to MHCLG to be made by 22 April 2025.

(b) That the reconstituted Neighbourhood Board be supported to develop a Regeneration Plan which complements the Council Plan.

(c) That it was agreed that the Chief Executive review the current support provided to ensure that there is capacity within the Council to deliver the initiative.

(d) That it was agreed that the Chief Executive be given delegated authority to progress recommendations 6a and 6c in consultation with the Leader and Stronger Communities Portfolio member.

REASONS - (a)To address the criteria laid down in the guidance.

(b) In order to secure the grant funding.