Community improvements funded by local development
The Museum of East Anglian Life, in Stowmarket, and the town’s football club, along with projects in Botesdale and Walsham le Willows are set to benefit as a result of development in Mid Suffolk.
Money has come for the schemes from Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) which is collected from developers when they build new homes in the district.
The funding helps to ensure that local infrastructure keeps pace with housing growth and also supports the council’s ongoing ambition for its communities to be attractive, successful and connected places for people to live and work.
Mid Suffolk councillors considered bids from the latest CIL funding round at last week’s cabinet meeting, with agreement reached on each of the requests.
This includes a £75,000 contribution towards proposals by the Museum of East Anglian Life for improvements to the allotments and Crack Wood – with the current allotments moving to another part of the site, allowing the creation of new wetland in Combs Ford, and accessible paths along the River Rattlesden.
A further £75,000 was agreed for Botesdale Parish Council’s plans to regenerate the parish recreation ground with new equipment and toddler, junior and youth play areas, plus health and fitness equipment an eco-route and disabled parking.
Councillors also agreed £25,000 for Stowmarket Community Sports and Social Club CIC so a new toilet block can be built at Stowmarket Football Club, with improved accessibility and amenities, including baby changing facilities.
Finally, councillors were asked to note a £9,315 award for Walsham le Willows Parish Council towards additions and improvements to the village play area which, following consultation, will include a new safe play areas for younger children and toddlers.
David Burn, Mid Suffolk cabinet member for planning, said: “I am delighted to see CIL funding making a real difference to local communities and providing facilities needed to help keep pace with future growth. The accessible river pathways and improved toilet facilities in Stowmarket will mean better inclusivity, while the allotments not only support wellbeing, but also our ambitions for a greener Suffolk.
“Further funding of nearly £85,000 in this CIL round towards new play equipment in our district also means the best possible start for local youngsters – providing safe and suitable surroundings where they can be active and enjoy themselves.”
Further information on how CIL works can be found on the council’s website, with details about how the levy has been allocated available on the council’s award-winning Developer Contributions Database.