Test Valley Borough Council executive have agreed to a procedure to allow easier access to section 106 developers funding for local organisations. Funding, which is agreed with developers when planning permission is given, is of three types (1) funding for roads and schools which is administered by Hampshire County Council, (2) funding for leisure and local services administered by Test Valley Borough Council and (3) additional funds for local projects. The new rules will make it easier for parish councils and other bodies to apply for this third category of funds.
Speaking at the executive meeting St Mary’s councillor Rod Bailey argued that funding from the Andover MDAs should be ring fenced for projects in Andover only. “My main concerns are that the Andover infrastructure needs improving” he said. “The housing estates, the Bus Station and the ageing Leisure Centre all need funding. We are also in desperate need of funds to re-generate the Walworth Industrial Estate. We need to be assured that before any funds are siphoned off elsewhere the needs of Andoverand its people are catered for and should any funds be required for other areas of Test Valley then Andover councillors must be consulted.”

Planning officers confirmed that funding from the Andover MDAs will be used only in the Andover area and that money for local projects will be allocated by the Planning department after consultation with relevant executive members and local ward members.
I am pleased to see this funding being released. In most cases applications will be made and administered by parish councils. However in Andover, as we have no town council, it is essential that local groups are not disadvantaged and do not loose out. I therefore urge all groups who feel they could benefit from this funding to contact either me or Rod to ensure this money is spent where it is needed in Andover.