Facing strong public opposition and a successful campaign, Nottingham City Council has abandoned its plan to impose market-level rents on community centres and will instead seek to set rents that cover operational costs only. The council has also agreed to meet with all affected centres to discuss their concerns and outline new proposals for maintaining these vital community hubs.
Nottingham City Council has taken a significant step back from its initial proposal to drastically reduce funding for community centres, following a public outcry and a successful campaign by Nottinghamshire Live and the Nottingham Post. The city council initially aimed to eliminate its £613,298 annual subsidy to its 35 community centres by April 2025, a move that threatened the services these centres provide, ranging from food banks to support groups for rape survivors.
Campaigners, volunteers, and community centre managers, including Katrina Howitt from Bulwell Hall Community Centre, argued that the proposed market-level rents would be unsustainable for many centres, potentially forcing closures. Over 300 people signed the Protect Nottingham Community Centres campaign's open letter to the council, highlighting the vital role these centres play in supporting vulnerable populations and fostering community cohesion. In response to the pressure, the city council has now reversed its stance on market-level rents. Instead, they plan to set rents that merely cover the costs of operating the community centres. The council also agreed to hold a meeting with all affected centres on February 26, allowing for open discussion and scrutiny of the new proposals. A report outlining these proposals will be presented to top councillors on March 18. The council also pledged to provide dedicated sessions for community centres on grant applications, business planning, and procurement strategies. Furthermore, the council assured that no changes would be implemented to existing arrangements during the negotiation process.
COMMUNITY CENTRES NOTTINGHAM CITY COUNCIL FUNDING CAMPAIGN RENT SERVICES COMMUNITY SUPPORT
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Nottingham City Council Faces Heavy Losses from Collapsed Nottingham Castle TrustThe council provided a loan and had outstanding invoices before the trust went into liquidation. Liquidators say it's uncertain if creditors will receive any money back.
Read more »
Nottingham City Council Warns of 'Free Travel' Tram and Bus ScamNottingham City Council has issued a warning about a persistent scam circulating on social media that promises six months of unlimited bus and tram travel for just £2. The scam, posing as 'Public Transport in Nottingham,' claims to offer a discounted Robin Hood Card in celebration of Nottingham City Transport's anniversary. Council officials urge residents to report the scam and avoid clicking on any links.
Read more »
Nottingham Community Centres Face Closure as City Council Cuts FundingNottingham's vital community centres are under threat of closure due to planned funding cuts by Nottingham City Council. The council aims to eliminate subsidies by April 2025, forcing centres to transition to market-level rents.
Read more »
Nottingham City Council Faces Up to £35 Million Funding GapNottingham City Council is grappling with a significant budget shortfall, potentially reaching £35 million. The council is exploring various options to address this financial crisis, including a possible increase in council tax and seeking additional government support.
Read more »
Nottingham City Council's Financial Crisis Eases, but Still Faces ChallengesNottingham City Council reports improved financial outlook, with budget gaps significantly reduced. The council attributes the progress to government funding, cost-cutting measures, and a new focus on efficiency. However, uncertainty remains regarding future funding and potential council tax increases.
Read more »
Nottingham City Council's Finances Improve from 'Terminal to Critical'Nottingham City Council has seen its financial situation improve from 'terminal to critical', according to its deputy leader. The Labour-led authority has reduced its budget gap for the year beginning April 2025 from £69m to £23.4m. The council has implemented a raft of new savings and cuts, including reviews of adult social care services and back office savings. While there is optimism about the improved finances, the council is still expecting to require Exceptional Financial Support in the coming years.
Read more »