Allocating almost £1million to local infrastructure projects
2 April 2025
We have approved the allocation of £998,100.87 in Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding to support 31 local infrastructure projects across the district for the financial year 2025/26.
CIL was introduced in 2015 to ensure that additional infrastructure is provided as a result of new development.
The decision, taken at the 2 April 2025 Cabinet meeting, follows a rigorous assessment process, with 79 bids submitted for consideration.
After careful review by council officers and a cross-party Task and Finish Group, the highest-scoring projects were selected for funding.
The chosen projects range from new play areas and multi-use games areas to footpath improvements, solar panel installations, and enhancements to community buildings. These investments align with the council's Corporate Plan priorities, supporting local communities, improving public spaces, and ensuring sustainable growth across the district.
Among the projects receiving funding are the redevelopment of East Boldre Village Hall, new drainage infrastructure for Sway Cricket Pavilion, and pedestrian improvements in Fordingbridge.
There are also plans to enhance recreational spaces, including the installation of new play equipment in Totton and Eling, and improvements to the sea water baths in Lymington. The funding will also support transport and accessibility enhancements, such as the promotion of the Castleman Trailway through new signage and benches.
Councillor Derek Tipp, Portfolio Holder for Planning and Economy, welcomed the funding, emphasising its impact on local communities.
"This investment ensures that the infrastructure needed to support new development is delivered in a way that benefits our residents. The wide range of projects being funded demonstrates our commitment to enhancing local facilities, improving accessibility, and supporting sustainable development across the New Forest. We recognise the hard work that goes into preparing these bids, and we are pleased to be able to fund so many valuable initiatives that will make a real difference to local communities."
In addition to approving this year's funding, we have also agreed to open the next round of bids for local infrastructure funding in spring 2025, allowing organisations to apply for funding for the 2026/27 financial year. This early opening aims to provide more time for applicants to develop proposals and will help accelerate the delivery of future infrastructure improvements.
Successful applicants from this year's funding round will now be contacted to finalise agreements, with work on the approved projects expected to begin in the coming months. Those whose bids were unsuccessful will have the opportunity to discuss their applications with council officers to explore potential improvements or alternative funding options.
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