A £20 million question mark is looming over Caerphilly, as local leaders struggle to decide how to spend a hefty regeneration fund. Announced in September by the UK Government, this cash injection was meant to revitalize the area over the next decade—part of the Pride in Place Fund. But without clear guidelines, it’s stuck in bureaucratic limbo!
Councillors are feeling the heat from the lack of direction. Acting council leader Cllr Jamie Pritchard has voiced his frustrations over the delayed guidance, saying, “We really should have had all the guidance criteria many weeks ago.”
At a recent committee meeting, hopes were raised about using some of the funds to save at-risk libraries across the borough. With plans to shutter ten smaller libraries, keeping these community staples open seems like a no-brainer… if only the council knew how the funds could be allocated!
Paul Hudson, the council’s business enterprise manager, shed some light, noting that about 75% of the funds might be for capital projects. Plus, there’s the bonus of a one-off £1.5 million from the Pride in Place ‘Impact Fund’ for immediate improvements in community and public spaces.
Cabinet members are set to hand over the reins to a Regeneration Project Board to oversee these funds. And community groups are encouraged to pitch project ideas once the criteria are clearer. The future of Caerphilly hangs in the balance, but with the right plan, a brighter, revitalised borough could be on the horizon! 🌟
Keep your eyes on this space and let’s hope for a funding breakthrough soon. What would you want to see this money go towards in our community? Share your thoughts!