Decision details

New Ferry £200k Allocation Decision

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Is Key decision?: No

Is subject to call in?: Yes

Decisions:

Councillor Janette Williamson introduced a report which outlined the proposed allocation of a hardship fund to help and support the residents and business of New Ferry. On 18 February, 2019 Budget Cabinet had agreed to allocate £200,000 and it was requested that, “officers report to Cabinet early in the new municipal year with a proposed methodology for allocating this funding” (minute 54 refers).

 

The report outlined the requested proposal for allocation, offering a clear criterion for selecting recipients of financial support and a pragmatic approach to ensuring the distribution could occur as swiftly as possible, following a decision. 

 

Councillor Janette Williamson referred to the lack of response from the Government despite persistent lobbying since the devastating explosion. The Council had itself invested £1.3m so far to help with the rebuilding programme. The allocation of £200,000 was a small token in recognition of the suffering residents and businesses had gone through, and was not compensation.

 

Cabinet Members expressed support for the proposals and thanks were also offered for everything the officers had done and were continuing to do. The people of New Ferry were also thanked for the way in which their community had come together to support each other with new community groups formed and support networks established.

 

Councillor Pat Hackett referred to a number of initiatives which were being undertaken to help with the regeneration of New Ferry. The area had been shortlisted for the Future High Streets Fund, with Wirral being the only area in the country to have two bids accepted. Bids were also in for Liverpool City Region Strategic Investment Funds.

 

On a motion by Councillor Tony Jones, seconded by Councillor Janette Williamson, it was -

 

Resolved– That the proposal for the allocation of £200,000 to help and support the residents and businesses of New Ferry and Port Sunlight affected by the explosion in March 2017 as outlined in paragraph 3.3 of the report, be approved.

 

Reasons for decision: As the Cabinet agreed to the allocation of £200,000 in February 2019 it is imperative that the distribution of said funding takes place as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Publication date: 26/07/2019

Date of decision: 22/07/2019

Decided at meeting: 22/07/2019 - Cabinet

Effective from: 03/08/2019

Accompanying Documents: