Sport, cultural activities and a community hall will share a total of £408,000 of new funding. The London Borough of Merton’s Cabinet approved the allocation of Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy funding to support three key projects that will significantly enhance the community’s cultural and recreational amenities. This strategic investment underscores the Council’s commitment to fostering civic pride, promoting cultural enrichment, and improving community infrastructure.
Borough of Culture Impact Award match funding
Merton has been awarded the prestigious Cultural Impact Award as part of the London Borough of Culture 2027 programme. The Council will allocate £375,000 from the Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) as match funding to secure the award. This funding will support a diverse array of cultural projects and activities across the borough, helping to reconnect communities with their cultural identity and fostering a sense of pride in Merton. The investment will put Merton on the map as a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.
Joseph Hood Recreation Ground enhancements
The Joseph Hood Recreation Ground will see substantial improvements with the allocation of Civic Pride Investing in Neighbourhoods funding approved by the Cabinet in February. As a further step the Cabinet has now agreed to expand the scope of the allocation to develop the plans further to include a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) to attract additional investment through match funding from the Football Foundation’s PlayZones programme. These enhancements will provide residents with more opportunities for outdoor sports and activities, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.
Whorley Hall redevelopment
A recent survey confirmed that Whorley Hall is beyond repair and needs to be demolished, which will be covered by £33,000 of extra funding.
Additionally, an existing £55,000 of funding will be repurposed to sustain the community work of the North East Mitcham Community Association (NEMCA) and continue to support broader initiatives benefiting the local community.
Councillor Eleanor Stringer, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Civic, said: “These investments demonstrate our commitment to nurturing civic pride and improving the quality of life for our residents. The Borough of Culture Impact Award will bring a range of exciting cultural activities to Merton, while the enhancements to Joseph Hood Recreation Ground and continued support for NEMCA, will provide much-needed recreational and community facilities. We are dedicated to creating a thriving, inclusive, and vibrant borough for all.”
Notes to Editors:
The Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is a levy on new developments used to fund local infrastructure projects that support the growth and improvement of the community.
The Cultural Impact Award is part of the London Borough of Culture programme, an initiative by the Mayor of London to promote and celebrate culture across London boroughs. The programme aims to bring cultural initiatives to local communities, fostering engagement and pride.
North East Mitcham Community Association (NEMCA) is a local community organisation dedicated to supporting and improving the lives of residents in North East Mitcham through various initiatives and community programmes.