FUNDING levied from developers when they build new homes in Cornwall will be used to promote greener living and healthier lifestyles.
Since January 2019, developers have to pay into a Community Infraastructure Levy (CIL). Part of ythis goes to the town or parish council in whichever place the project is located, and so far Cornwall Council has paide more than £200k in CIL funds to local councils in this way.
The remainder can be used to benefit communties across the county by providing new or improved infrastructure such as school extensions or play areas to mitigate against any adverse effects of development.
Now, in a new scheme, not-for-profit organisations and community groups, including local town or parish councils, can apply for up to £100,000 to fund projects that will help boost greener living or promote healthier lifestyles.
Edwina Hannaford, portfolio holder for Climate Change and Neighbourhoods said: ’The new community CIL Fund is a direct result of our ambition to make Cornwall as green as we can possibly be.
’We were one of the first councils to create a comprehensive climate action plan and are leading the way in promoting green initiatives.’
Dulcie Tudor, chair of Strategic Planning said: ’This an exciting opportunity for community organisations to build low carbon projects into their local infrastructure.
’Covid-19 has shown that there can be no going back to business as usual and Lib Dems on Cornwall Council are determined to provide the tools and funding for local communities to flourish in a way that helps to tackle climate change.’
The new CIL Fund will hand out grants of £20,000 to £100,000 through a competitive application process. Applicants will need to show how there is local need and community support for their project as well as how it will enable lower carbon living as part of the Council’s ambitions for Cornwall to become carbon neutral by 2030.
Projects could include things like: new pedestrian and cycle paths; improvements or creation of green spaces; or the adaptation of community buildings to enable multi-use functions such as improved access to health facilities and physical activities.
Infrastructure projects that will help communities recover from the impact of COVID-19 will also be welcomed.
The application form and guidance is available at www.cornwall.gov.uk/cil and the deadline for applications is October 19.