Decision
Analysis
outcome: Recommendations were approved unanimously by the Executive.
summary: The decision involves the allocation of funding for the final year of the Rural England Prosperity Fund to help small businesses grow and be more sustainable.
topline: The Executive has decided to allocate funding from the Rural England Prosperity Fund to support small businesses.
reason_contentious: This issue is not particularly contentious as it focuses on economic development and support for small businesses.
affected_stakeholders: ["Small businesses", "Council members", "Director of Place", "Executive Member for Economic Development"]
contentiousness_score: 2
political_party_relevance: There are no mentions or implications of political parties or political influence on the decision.
URL: https://meetings.westoxon.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=429
Decision Maker: Executive
Outcome: Recommendations Approved
Is Key Decision?: No
Is Callable In?: No
Purpose:
Content: Councillor Duncan Enright introduced the item, the purpose of which was to provide a report to the Executive on allocation for the final year of Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF). Councillor Enright noted that a great deal had been accomplished with the first tranche of REPF, and it was welcome that the Government had extended funding for a further year. The Councils intention for the use of the funding was to both build on what had worked well in the first round and introduce some new priorities. The total capital allocation would be £214,829 which was accompanied by Government guidelines on how this money could be spent. Councillor Enright suggested that the Council intended to use the funds to help small businesses grow and be more sustainable. Councillor Duncan Enright proposed accepting the recommendations of the report Councillor Andy Graham seconded the recommendations. This was voted on and approved unanimously. RESOLVED: That the Executive: Noted the report. Delegated the approval of the grants outlined in the report to the Director of Place in consultation with The Executive Member for Economic Development.
Date of Decision: June 11, 2025