New Deal have rejected another long running project this month. The ‘Open Access Playcare Phase 2’ project, which was to provide support for play provision such as the Adventure Playground, was rejected because New Deal did not consider it provided value for money. Other projects are only being approved until March 2006.
As we go to print the Partnership Board is meeting to decide which projects will share the remaining money and continue for the next five years. Only £5.5 million of the £52 million remains ‘uncommitted’.
New Deal told us, “£46.5 million is committed (approved projects), of which £14.5 million has already been spent in years 1–4. Leaving £5.5 million uncommitted. Therefore it is essential that the remaining resources are allocated to areas of work that have most impact in delivering New Deal outcomes.”
Committed funds includes money for projects that already have full approval, for example the £13 million set aside to refurbish Sorby House, the Vestry Hall and the public realm on Spital Hill.
The consequence is that many projects currently funded by New Deal are unlikely to receive further grants. Those that have only recently received approval could end in March 2006.