The environmental projects that won Brent’s first’ Participatory Budgeting’ ‘You Decide’ event
Brent residents have cast their votes to choose which projects should share a £500,000 funding pot that aims to reduce carbon emissions in the borough by at least 100 tonnes.
Voting from residents took place on Saturday 29 January. This is the first time that Brent has used this bold new Participatory Budgeting programme. The ‘You Decide’ programme has put the community in the driving seat from the start; the resident-led Planning Group (CO2GO) designed the funding criteria and powers were handed to residents to say which projects should be funded.
A diverse range of almost 250 residents attended the ‘Decision Day’ event, which was open to any Brent resident, and voted on the green projects that they felt would make a difference in their communities. The residents’ choices are subject to formal ratification from the council’s Cabinet.
The first pot of £400k was awarded to homes that will install energy efficiency measures to reduce their carbon emissions. The winning bids included a total of 37 flats, maisonettes and houses that will undergo sustainability works to reduce their carbon footprint. These properties have combined as a cluster to maximise the benefits of green measures. Two community buildings in Willesden were also selected for energy saving makeovers.
The second pot of £100k was awarded to community groups who will run educational projects to help residents reduce carbon emissions, save money, and make positive and healthier lifestyle changes.
Read more on the Wembley Matters website