Issue - meetings

Report from the Leader and Cabinet Member for Strategic Growth attached.

The Leader and Cabinet Member for Strategic Growth presented a report providing an update on the Greater Manchester UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) for Years 1–3 and the extension of this funding under the newly titled Local Growth and Place Flexible Grant (LGPFG) programme. The report included details of Bury’s grant allocation and outlined the next steps in the programme’s delivery.

The Leader reported that Bury had been allocated £1.7 million through the LGPFG programme. This funding will be used to implement changes across the borough, building on lessons learned from the previous three years of the UKSPF. The focus will be on delivering more impactful outcomes for local communities. While specific details of the programme will become clearer as the process develops, it is hoped that over the next year, residents will begin to feel the positive impact of the investment.

Councillor Quinn declared an interest regarding this item due to his involvement as a member of the Prestwich Carnival Committee and raised the importance of supporting local events.

Councillor O’Brien acknowledged that one of the key challenges facing community events such as carnivals is the rising cost of delivery. He emphasised that while the process cannot be pre-empted, the principle of using the fund to unlock the value of community engagement and economic growth would be well received.

Councillor Gold supported this view, highlighting that events like carnivals play a vital role in bringing communities together. It was noted that costs such as insurance have increased significantly, placing additional pressure on organisers.

Councillor Mike Smith referred to the funding allocated for the Radcliffe Enterprise Centre and sought clarification on whether funding remains available.

The Leader confirmed and reiterated that the LGPFG programme represents a positive opportunity for the borough and that further updates will be provided as the programme progresses.

Decision:

The Cabinet:

1. Noted the update and the allocations for the Local Growth and Place Flexible Grant Funding.

Reasons for the decision:

Not applicable.

Alternative options considered and rejected:

Not applicable.