Agenda item

Report of the Executive Director Economy and Public Protection

The Cabinet Member with the Stronger Communities Portfolio introduced the report (previously circulated) of the Executive Director of Economy and Public Protection which was to provide the background to the Pride in Place Programme, Outline the current position of the fund in Darlington, Outline the Council’s governance arrangements and Present the Regeneration Plan submitted to MHCLG for approval.

The report explained that Darlington is part of the Government’s Pride in Place programme which will invest £19,539,000 in Darlington over the next ten years. In order to manage the fund an independent Neighbourhood Board has been established to which the Council acts as secretariat and accountable body. Staffing arrangements have been revised in order to support the delivery of the fund objectives and officers will attend meetings to advise the board.

The report stated that the Project Management capability will be provided by the Council and the Council’s procurement team ensures the procurement route is correct, appropriate Governance arrangements are also in place. It was explained that a Regeneration Plan had been submitted to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

RESOLVED - It is recommended that:

a)      The Regeneration Plan is endorsed

b)      b) The governance and programme delivery arrangements are agreed

REASON - The recommendations are supported by the following reasons:

a)      The Pride in Place programme represents an investment of £19,539,000 in Darlington over the next ten years.

b)      The programme in development directly supports the ambitions of the Council Plan