Agenda item

To receive and consider the report of the Deputy Town Clerk.

The Committee received the report of the Responsible Financial Officer (RFO) and Deputy Town Clerk concerning grant activity to local organisations.

Members considered two applications for subsidised lettings: one from Witney Food Revolution for use of the Corn Exchange for a fundraising event, and another for use of Burwell Hall to host a Seniors’ Christmas Party.

The Committee agreed that both events would deliver clear social value and should therefore be supported. As the subsidised lettings budget had already been fully allocated, Members approved funding for both applications from the underspend within the discretionary grants budget.

Finally, Members discussed the appropriate budget allocations for 2026–27 to support the Witney Carnival and the Witney Christmas Lights Switch-On. Having reviewed the information provided in advance of the meeting, the Committee acknowledged the significant value both events bring to the community and agreed to set contributions at £2,500 and £2,600 respectively.

Resolved:

1.      That, the report be noted and,

2.      That, Witney Food Revolution be awarded subsidised letting of the Corn Exchange for the sum of £228.33 and,

3.      That, the Burwell Senior’s Christmas Party at Burwell Hall be awarded subsidised letting for the sum of £168 and,

4.      That, this funding be allocated from the discretionary grants budget line of 4100/407 and,

5.      That, £2,500 be added to the 2026-27 budget for Witney Carnival and,

6.      That, £2,600 be added to the 2026-27 budget for the Witney Christmas Lights Switch on Event and,

7.      That, these grants be awarded under the General Power of Competence and awardees be asked to acknowledge the Town Council in any promotional material.