A guide to Colchester Councillors’ Locality Budgets

Can I pool the Locality Budget?

Yes, more than one Councillor can contribute from their Locality Budget to a specific project or group (for example if projects cover several wards). However, a maximum of £6,000 can be allocated to any individual project or group within any one financial year.

Can I carry forward unspent budget?

Unspent money cannot be carried forward unless there are exceptional circumstances. Any request must be received in writing and be for specific spend (not general carry forward). See above for details.

Can payments be made to individuals?

Payments directly to individuals should be avoided. Where there is no other option, the Councillor should seek advice from the Locality Budget Administrator about how to demonstrate the legitimacy of the transaction.

Can I apply for subsequent funding for the same organisation?

Councillors choose how to spend their Locality Budget in line with the criteria. If funding is allocated to the same organisation in subsequent years, be aware that all expenditure is published on your Councillor profile on the website.

Useful information

Consult your colleagues

Councillors are encouraged to consult as widely as possible with appropriate groups and individuals, including Residents’ Associations, Tenants’ Associations, County Councillors, other Ward Councillors, the Community Enabling Team at the Council, Neighbourhood Teams, Parish and Town Councils, and Voluntary Groups. Councillors are encouraged to work in partnership with Councillors from their fellow political group as well as other political groups wherever practicable.

Use of Colchester procurement section

The use of Colchester procurement methods is to be encouraged and promoted as it may be possible to obtain equipment etc. at advantageous prices and reduce VAT liability, and/or expert advice and assistance will be available on the choice of supplier and type of product to best meet the needs of the beneficiary.

Transparency

Be aware that full details of proposals, commitments and actual expenditure by each Councillor will be made available on the Council’s website along with the amount of money still available to be spent/committed.

For further information on the scheme contact Mark Healy, Community Enabling Officer, on 07817 889992, or email mark.healy@colchester.gov.uk​​​​​​​.