BROMSGROVE community groups are set to benefit again from the latest New Homes Bonus (NHB) funding allocations, writes Eve Watson.
At its latest meeting the district council agreed to make £74,000 available for improvements to facilities across the district under the NHB scheme which was introduced in 2011 to allow central government to pay local authorities a bonus payment when new homes were built in the council’s area.
The aim is to pass on some of the money to community groups to improve facilities in areas affected by new housing.
Due to a petition by Hagley Residents Action Group, the council changed their policy in 2014 meaning £450,000 has now been made available to communities across the district.
Alvechurch, Barnt Green, Bellbroughton, Catshill, Clent, Hagley, Rock Hill, Rubery and Wythall have benefited from the scheme so far as local community groups have submitted successful bids for the cash available
Peter Rowbottom, leader of the petition presented to the council said it was excellent news that NHB cash was available for community projects across the district for the fifth year running.
“The scheme is repeatedly oversubscribed, with bids for money for improving local facilities far exceeding the amount of money made available each year, thus proving how successful the scheme is amongst Bromsgrove communities.
“I would encourage communities across the district to bid for a share of the £74,000 available this year when the bidding process opens later in the year.”
Visit bromsgrove.gov.uk/nhb for more information and how to apply.
