Cloughmills Old Mill scheme funding refusal

The issue was raised during last week’s Full Council meeting when it was revealed that the scheme’s application for Lottery Space and Place Programme funding had been unsuccessful.

Only last week, the Times revealed that the project had been deferred as part of the new direction from the DoE Minister where any capital contracts under which ‘the consideration payable by the council exceeds £250,000’ must be referred to the new shadow council for its consideration.

And following a meeting on July 24th, the new council had since approved the plans subject to a grant being available.

However a Amenities report revealed: ‘It is recommended that Council note that correspondence has been received by Cloughmills Community Action Team, recently furnished, advising that the partnership (CCAT + Council) stage two application to the Lottery Space and Place Programme was unsuccessful.

‘The matter will be reconsidered as there is an opportunity to reapply under Tranches 3 or 4 with a further report to Committee/Council in due course.’

Addressing members, Director Mr John Michael explained: “There is a chance that the scheme can be reconsidered, however this closes on September 1. A meeting has been arranged to see why after so much positive comments on the scheme at the preliminary stages, it has failed now.

“It is hoped we will try to meet the Tranch 3 deadline.”

It was also noted by Council that Rasharkin Community Centre Improvement Scheme may proceed follwing the shadow council’s meeting.

Members heard that five tenders had been received but agreed that TAL Limited be awarded the tender (£306,000.00)

* However it was also revealed the proposed Additional Pitches Scheme at Riada Playing Fields did not obtain the sanction of the Causeway Coast and Glens District Council to proceed at this time, despite the project having been tendered.