Issue - decisions

Consideration was given to proposals for the allocation of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) for 2025/26 as detailed in Table  1 at 5.4 of the report.

The programme took a balanced approach, aimed to deliver under each of the three UKSPF priorities, allocated funding towards strategic priorities and delivered considerable tangible benefits to communities. 

Particular reference was made to the Rural England Prosperity Fund which had helped to support rural communities and businesses.   Whilst the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) had recently announced further funding for 2025/26, there was uncertainty around the amount to be received.  It was proposed that when the Rural England Prosperity Funding became available it be used for further rounds of the West Kent Rural Grant Scheme.

Cabinet had due regard to the views of the Finance, Regeneration and Property Scrutiny Select Committee, the  financial and value for money considerations and noted that there should be minimal delays in progressing the programme at the start of the financial year. 

Cllr Coffin proposed, seconded by Cllr Betts and Cabinet

RESOLVED:  That

(1)             the proposed UKSPF Programme for 2025/26, as set out in Table 1 be approved;

(2)             delegated authority be given to the Strategic Economic Regeneration Manager, in liaison with the Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Regeneration and Property, to make minor amendments to the programme that might be needed in the event of project underspend; and

(3)             the use of any additional Rural England Prosperity Fund for 2025/26  (allocation amount to be confirmed) for further rounds of the West Kent Rural Grants Scheme be approved.