To receive an update on the Towns Fund projects.
Minutes:
The Board received an update from Jez Goodman, Development and Regeneration Manager.
In respect of the Town Funds project, it was reported that:
· RAG Status - changes had been applied to two projects: History Centre (from green to amber due to time); and the Jubilee project (part of Pocket Parks) (from amber to red due to cost). All other ratings remained unchanged.
· Funding Reallocation - following the revised scope of the Valley Brook Corridor project, £736k had been made available for reallocation. Previous proposals covering Warm and Healthy Homes, High Streets, Youth Zone, and Youth Clubs totalled £357k. This, and the remaining circa. £379k, could be used to address budget pressures, including within Warm and Healthy Homes, The Dome Youth Zone, and the Jubilee project. No decisions on funding expenditure had been made at this stage.
· Cumberland Arena - potential funding to extend the project to include an upgrade to the athletics track could be considered. However, cost estimates were based only on initial feasibility work and required further validation. External funding sources were also being explored, although there remained a risk that the Council would be unable to underwrite any additional cost increases. The current anticipated completion date for the current approved works was September 2026.
· Future Projects / Funding - further work was ongoing on Royal Arcade Phase 3 and the wider Crewe regeneration plan, although the associated funding requirements were not yet fully defined. Greater clarity on options and evidence to support decisions was expected ahead of the July Board meeting; however, not all projects were likely to have confirmed cost certainty by that stage. The Board placed a strong emphasis on obtaining firm costings by July to enable decision-making. Concerns were raised in relation to delays, inflation, and risk of funding being used to cover overruns rather than deliver on projects.
· Repurposing Our High Street Grants - 34 grants had been approved; 31 businesses had opened. Her-Place planned to open at the end of June 2026. In relation to Health on the High Street, engagement with the NHS was ongoing to develop a town centre presence, which would complement the new hospital plans and align with the requirements of the ICB. Consideration was given to the grant conditions in relation to businesses that had ceased trading.
· ‘Meanwhile’ Uses - works were completing on the cleared site next to the new bus station and car park, with hardstanding due in early June 2026. Discussions were ongoing regarding summer community activities. The scheme was expected to operate for 3-5 years and was funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
· History Centre - following delay, a Spring 2027 opening was now anticipated.
· TADIC - an opening event had been scheduled for 23 June 2026; all Board Members had been invited.
· The Dome Youth Zone - the project was on track for July 2026 completion; an additional funding request was expected due to cost overruns. A very successful recruitment event was held on 15 May 2026.
· Pocket Parks - works at Westminster Street were underway; Valley Park was progressing. The team was also currently working on Pebble Brook Park (outside of the Towns Fund). Consideration was given to the Council’s processes for determining allocations for the Government’s Playgrounds Fund, including the submission of expressions of interest and the requirement to spend the funding within a 12?month period.
· Jubilee Project - additional costs were emerging (drainage issues) and it was anticipated that further funding would be required for the works.
· Mill Street Corridor - the project was expected to complete this month, with positive feedback received to date. Officers would explore potential long-term options for Phase 2b to enhance the area’s visual appearance.
· Southern Gateway - an official opening for the gateway was expected to take place in the coming weeks.
· Warm and Healthy Homes - it was reported that 55 residents had responded to the survey; a preferred contractor had almost been appointed, with final costs to be provided in September 2026.
· Valley Brook Corridor - works were due to start at the end of June 2026.
A list of project completions in 2026/27 was provided; Board Members highlighted the importance of encouraging timely progression of projects, wherever possible.
RECOMMENDED:
That the updates be noted.