URL: https://modgov.hillingdon.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=3356

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose:

Content: RESOLVED:   That:   1)    the proposed allocations in Section 2 of the Supporting Information, for spending Hillingdon’s 2025/26 UK Shared Prosperity Fund grant, be approved 2)    authority be delegated to the Director for Planning and Sustainable Growth to sign-off on all expenditure of the grant in-line with the approach set out in section 2 and make procurement decisions on contracts below £100,000 in value, reporting decisions for transparency. 3)    note that the Corporate Director of Place, following legal advice, has agreed and signed the UKSPF grant agreement with the Greater London Authority for 2025/26. 4)    note that the Director for Planning and Sustainable Growth has agreed and signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Ealing Council for an additional tri-borough grant element.   Reasons for decision   At the Cabinet meeting, the Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing & Growth presented a report on Hillingdon’s £1.1 million allocation from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund for 2025–2026. Despite national reductions, the Council retained its full funding, including a successful Tri-Borough bid with Ealing and Harrow. The funding, which was entirely external and had no impact on the Council’s core budget, was aimed at supporting town centre regeneration, business growth, and employment initiatives.   The capital portion of the funding would be used for improvements in Uxbridge and Hayes, including upgrades to public spaces and the development of a Business Innovation Hub in partnership with Brunel University and the Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce. Revenue funding would continue to support employment and training programmes, business mentoring, and procurement readiness for SMEs. The Cabinet Member highlighted that over 350 residents and 200 businesses had already benefited from previous funding, and this year’s allocation would build on that success.   The Cabinet Member also noted that the UK Shared Prosperity Fund would end in March 2026, making this year’s allocation likely the final opportunity to use the funding.   The Deputy Leader welcomed the report, acknowledging the value of the grant and the importance of using it effectively for the benefit of residents and businesses.   Cabinet agreed the recommendations.   Alternative options considered   None, as the Council would forgo the opportunity to utilise this grant to support businesses and residents and improve town centres.    Relevant Select Committee Residents’ Services Expiry date for any scrutiny call-in / date decision can be implemented (if no call-in) Cabinet’s decisions on this matter can be called in by a majority of the select committee by 5pm, Friday 4 July 2025. If not called-in by then, Cabinet’s decisions can then be implemented. Officer(s) to action Sam Robins Directorate Place Classification Public - The report and any background papers relating to this decision by the Cabinet are available to view on the Council's website or by visiting the Civic Centre, Uxbridge.    

Date of Decision: June 26, 2025