This report deals with the 15% of collected Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) which should be allocated to the local area in which development takes place and updates on the progress of the projects which have already been allocated funds by the Committee.

The Committee considered a report providing an update on the progress of projects funded through the 15% local Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), which was allocated to the local area in which development takes place.

The report explained that, under the Community Infrastructure Levy Regulations 2010 (as amended), 15% of CIL receipts must be spent in the relevant local area unless a neighbourhood development plan or order was in place. In Reading, this was managed through a CIL Spend Protocol, originally approved by Policy Committee in July 2018 and amended in February 2021, which sets out the principles and priorities for allocating 15% local CIL.

The Committee were advised that the protocol prioritises projects that support open space and leisure improvements, local highway schemes, air quality, community infrastructure, renewable energy, and economic support.  Allocations must also demonstrate alignment with the Council’s Infrastructure Delivery Plan or Capital Programme, and may be used to unlock additional funding or address impacts of development not covered by planning obligations.

The report provided updates on the delivery status of previously approved projects and confirmed that the allocations continued to support the Council’s strategic aims, particularly in promoting thriving communities.

Resolved –

That the progress on the projects benefitting from the 15% local Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) allocated be noted.