Green light for £2.5m spending on new projects for district

MORE than £2.5million will be spent on a string of major projects across the district after Stratford District Council rubber-stamped the schemes.

The projects, approved at a recent full council meeting, will be funded on a one-off basis through the council’s substantial reserves.

An extensive upgrade of the district’s CCTV systems, the establishment of a new business centre, investment in wireless broadband and improvements to leisure facilities at Alcester’s Greig Hall, were all among the projects approved.

Cllr Stephen Thirlwell, deputy leader of Stratford district council, said: “This is a one-off’ opportunity for the district council to use a proportion of its general fund reserves to deliver a number of corporate projects across the district.

“The district council’s strong financial position and the increased funding from the New Homes Bonus and business rates has enabled these corporate projects to be funded; whilst still retaining a good level of reserves, despite the unclear future funding of local government.

“It’s all about using our funding and investing wisely for the benefit of the district. These corporate projects are far reaching and will make a huge difference in the district.”

Although the Lib Dem group were not in opposition to the projects selected, they did submit a motion with a list of their own proposals for consideration. These included reviewing playgrounds throughout the district to see whether refurbishment is needed and examining whether improvements can be made to improve pavements and the public realm in Stratford. The suggestions were referred to cabinet for consideration and report without debate.