Supporting capital projects within Gateshead

About The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Fund

The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is a charge made by local authorities on new building developments in their area, for example, when new housing is constructed.

The CIL Fund supports capital infrastructure projects within Gateshead and applications will be considered from voluntary, community and social enterprise sector organisations.

The CIL Fund will only consider applications for infrastructure projects of benefit to local communities and funds are limited so please apply as soon as possible; once the available funds are allocated, the fund will close. Previous grants have included:

• Replacing a roof
• Installing new windows to reduce heat loss
• Installing solar panels and battery storage
• Replacing shower and kitchen facilities
• Creating a community heritage garden

Applications must outline the proposed capital infrastructure project and the benefits for the local community. You can apply for up to £25,000, although larger grants will be considered where there is significant community impact.

Applications will be considered from voluntary, community and social enterprise sector organisations, based in the following wards, and within the following grant ranges. Larger grants may be considered where there is significant community impact, and where funds are available.

Current ward funding available

• Winlaton and High Spen: £12,542 available (max grant request £12,542)
• Ryton, Crookhill and Stella: £52,947 available (max grant request £25,000)
• Wardley and Leam Lane: £38,906 available (max grant request £25,000)
• Birtley: £30,192 available (max grant request £25,000)
• Dunston Hill and Whickham East: £1,848 (max grant request £1,848)

What to include

Applications must outline the proposed capital project and the benefits for the local community; applications from organisations based outside the target ward may also be considered, where it can be demonstrated that they will benefit the community within the target ward. Applicants must demonstrate sustainability, with no ongoing revenue costs for Gateshead Council.

Applicants will also need to provide copies of the following documents with their application:

• Project budget and three quotes for the work or items to be purchased
• Copies of relevant insurance policies and asset register

For capital building works, the following must also be provided:

• Evidence that any capital works have been approved by the owner of the building
• Architect and surveyor reports
• Information on any relevant permissions that will be required, for example the Part Wall act, planning permission or building regulations and use of the competent person scheme
• Length of lease if the building is leased
• Confirmation of asset transfer completion, if ownership has been transferred from the Council

Please note that applications will not be considered if appropriate documentation is not submitted. 

In all cases before applying, please contact the Fund Manager, Pete Barrett, to discuss your proposal and to ensure there is funding available in your Ward.

Decision making

Decisions on applications will be made by an Advisory Panel, which includes representatives of the Ward under consideration, Gateshead Council and the Community Foundation.

To make an application, please click here