Organisations can submit bids for Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) funds (normally in the autumn), if there are funds allocated to Knowle, Dorridge and Bentley Heath. These applications are assessed by Solihull Council, with funds awarded in the Spring. Once NCIL applications are approved, we will share them on the list of past NCIL bids.
The scheme is being run by Solihull Council and uses funding from a levy on developers. This year (2025/2026) a total of nearly £400,000 is available across five wards in the Borough. One of these is Knowle – which has been awarded £96,601 under the scheme.
Sadly, there’s nothing for Dorridge and Bentley Heath; but the Forum hopes we’ll be seeing lots of strong community bids where funding is available.
Bids can be made by a variety of organisations, not just community groups. This includes residents’ associations, registered charities, state schools and statutory infrastructure providers.
To be considered, groups and organisations must be formally constituted; have a bank account with two unrelated signatories; at least two unrelated management committee members if they are an unincorporated organisation or a voluntary group; and show good financial management procedures, including records of income and expenditure.
The sort of project that would be eligible for funding are capital projects that can be categorised as infrastructure or which would mitigate the impact of development on the area. Funds are not available for ‘running costs’.
Some examples of the sort of projects that might qualify are community facilities – refurbishment and renovation; sports / outdoor gym and play equipment; green spaces, parks and community gardens; facilities to support public transport, walking and cycling; and digital networks.
Potential applicants are encouraged to get in touch with the Forum in the first instance. We will be very happy to have an informal discussion about your ideas and pass on the benefits of our experience. Applicants who have involved the Forum have in the past had a better chance of a successful application.
In addition, email the Council’s CIL team to request a discussion of a potential project: cil@solihull.gov.uk
Sorry!
There are no current NCIL bids to view.