Decision details

The Committee gave consideration to a report setting out key findings from an evaluation that had been completed following the launch of the Aspiring Places initiative. The report proposed that a wider and deeper piece of work was now required to build on understanding and to develop more sustainable solutions to managing grant funding.

Decision

The Policy and Resources Committee –

1.    noted the successful launch of the Aspiring Places platform and that it remained a live site for the benefit of communities, funders and the Council;

2.    noted the key findings from the evaluation of the scheme as set out in paragraphs 4.7 to 4.33 of the submitted report and in particular an emerging need to develop a more sustainable approach to managing government grant funds in an equitable manner for the Council and our communities alike; and

3.    requested the Chief Executive to undertake a formal review of the approach to the management of grant funding in a manner that is aligned with the Corporate Plan and Connect for Success principles.

(Reference: Report by Chief Executive dated 5 November 2025, submitted)