Decision details

Details of decision: 

The Portfolio Holder approves Somerset West and Taunton Council’s submission of a bid into the Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government’s Levelling Up bid, entitled “A Vision for Tonedale”

Reasons for proposed decision: 

This Levelling Up bid provides an opportunity for Somerset West and Taunton, working in partnership with many partners, stakeholders, and the community at large to deliver benefits in community and commercial sectors, education and apprenticeships, health and wellbeing, employment opportunities and environmental improvements, whilst simultaneously meeting many of the Levelling Up outputs under the regeneration and cultural criteria.

Tonedale Mill and the surrounding green spaces and waterways are integral to the fabric of Wellington both as a place and as crucially in its identity. The deterioration of the nationally significant industrial fabric and infrastructure whilst in private ownership has reached a critical point, but it is not too late. The Levelling Up bid can combine the needs of the community with the salvation of the natural and built assets to the benefit of all.

Consultation to date:

Regular updates have been provided to the Wellington Town Council and Langford Budville Parish Council. Significant local stakeholders and consultation has occurred through our partnership with the Wellington Mills CIC.

WMCIC was established in 2018. In January 2021 SWT signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the group to formalise and demonstrate the joint commitment to the heritage and environment of Wellington. They have completed multiple rounds of community consultation for the sites and may become end users for parts of each project.

SWT are also working closely with community sports, cultural and leisure groups who are interested in or who would benefit from the community land consolidation project.

Alternative funding options sourced:

The submission into the Levelling up fund bid does refer to a number of match funding contributions that have been made by SWT, including capital and revenue expenditure. This funding is already committed and/or spent and does not require further approval.

There is no financial ask of SWT in the Levelling Up fund. A report to Full Council will follow the submission to request that should the bid be successful, a supplementary capital budget is created to allow the spend of the monies on the projects described. The LUF proposal stipulates that some of the funds must be spent in financial year 21/22, hence this paper seeks approval to spend the funds if successful ahead of time to allow time for procurement and design to take place.

Any conflicts of interest declared by Leader or Executive Members consulted on the proposed decision.  If Yes provide confirmation from Chief Executive to grant dispensation for the Leader’s / Executive Member’s views to be considered.