Section 106 funding in Somerset
If you need funding for a project that will benefit the communities in Somerset, there may be funding available.
See our Guidance notes on (Section 106) Funding
Who can apply
Applications are normally invited from the following not-for-profit organisations whose activities benefit residents of the former South Somerset district area:
- Local Authority, such as District Council, Town Council, Parish Council, Somerset Council
- Educational establishment
- Company limited by guarantee with charitable status
- Registered charitable organisations
- Unincorporated not for profit organisations
Capital and revenue
The difference between capital and revenue:
Capital – Section 106 funds may only be spent on new facilities, or improvements to facilities where the new development has contributed to the need for that facility or will have an impact on the existing facilities. These costs can also include project management costs.
Revenue – Section 106 funding for revenue costs (also known as commuted sums) is for expenditure or costs, which primarily relate to the maintenance of existing facilities. This includes minor repairs, replacement or redecoration and cannot be used towards Capital projects. Commuted sums will be paid after completion of the project.
In both cases retrospective funding is not permitted.
Section 106 funding can only be awarded to Capital projects that are in accordance with the contents of the relevant Section 106 Agreement or Unilateral Undertaking.
Typically Section 106 funding will be required to be spent at a specific location and on specific Type of Provision.
How to apply
Please read through the attached guidance notes, once you know what S106 planning application no. you are applying for and how much funding you require for your project.
Please email planningobligations@somerset.gov.uk for an Expression of Interest form.
Guidance for planning a play area or youth facility
Please see below for general guidance on what you should consider when planning your play area or youth facility project for your community. This will help you install good quality equipment that will last and that you can easily maintain.
- Installation of quality equipment – this should meet EN1176 Play Equipment and EN1177 Safety Surfacing regulations
- A good design – experience play companies can assist with this. You can also look at other parish play areas for completed recent projects and contact the Parish Clerk for good practice information. You should also consider landscaping environment, furniture, signage and accessibility of the area
- Support for your project – you should consult the Parish Council and residents in the first instance to establish what equipment is required for the project
- Insurance implications – check this with your insurance company
- Regular inspections – industry standards strongly suggest the following:
- weekly inspection (routine inspection)
- quarterly inspection (operational inspection)
- annual inspection
A routine inspection is a visual inspection and can be carried out by any competent person. Training is advised and is usually a one-day course. Somerset Council offer a service to carry out weekly and quarterly inspections (other companies also provide this service). Annual inspections are done by qualified play inspectors.
- Maintenance costs – a sinking fund for ongoing maintenance is advisable. Equipment generally lasts for around 20 years before replacement is required. Parishes can precept for maintenance costs and funding can also be in the form of Section 106 commuted sums, if this has been requested from a recent planning development in your parish
- Repairs and maintenance – issues discovered at inspections will need to be actioned. Maintenance will also include regular cutting of grass, litter picking and emptying of bins