Issue - meetings

This report sets out information on the Future High Streets Fund and seeks approval for submission of an Expression of Interest for Tonbridge.

(Report of Chief Executive)

The report set out information on the Future High Streets Fund and sought approval for submission of an Expression of Interest for Tonbridge, which had to be submitted to Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government by 22 March 2019.

Following consideration by the Economic Regeneration Advisory Board, the Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration resolved that:

(1)             the content of the report be noted; and

(2)             delegated authority be granted to the Director of Planning, Housing and Environmental Health and the Director of Central Services, in consultation with the Leader, the Cabinet Member for Finance, Innovation and Property and the Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure, to finalise an Expression of Interest and submit to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government by 22 March 2019.

Decision Notice D190018MEM

The report of the Chief Executive set out information on the Future High Streets Fund and sought approval for submission of an Expression of Interest for Tonbridge, which had to be submitted to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government by 22 March 2019.

Members were advised that the main objective of the Fund was to renew and reshape town centres and high streets in a way that improved experience, encouraged growth and ensured future sustainability.   Based on the scope and eligibility criteria it was suggested that an Expression of Interest be submitted for Tonbridge as it was classified in the draft Local Plan as the only town centre within the borough.  This also offered an opportunity for further regeneration of the town centre.

It was noted that this was likely to be a very competitive funding stream and that as Tonbridge faced significant challenges it represented the strongest chance of success.  Members asked that air quality measures and improvements to the overall appearance of the town centre be considered as part of the Expression of Interest submission.

Reference was made to the Borough Council’s recently announced grants for shop front improvements which offered alternative funding opportunities for other retail centres in the borough.   Small retailers in Tonbridge, West Malling, Borough Green, Snodland, Hadlow, Larkfield, Kings Hill, East Peckham, Aylesford and Wrotham would be advised of the scheme in the next couple of weeks.

RECOMMENDED: That

(1)             the content of the report be noted; and

(2)             delegated authority be granted to the Director of Planning, Housing and Environmental Health and the Director of Central Services, in consultation with the Leader, the Cabinet Member for Finance, Innovation and Property and the Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure, to finalise an Expression of Interest and submit to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government by 22 March 2019.