Gosport Borough Council
Councillors:
27
Wards:
14
Committees:
10
Meetings (2026):
59
Meetings (2025):
50
Meeting
Grants Sub-Board - Gosport
Meeting Times
Scheduled Time
Start:
Thursday, 25th June 2026
6:00 PM
Thursday, 25th June 2026
6:00 PM
End:
Thursday, 25th June 2026
10:00 PM
Thursday, 25th June 2026
10:00 PM
Meeting Status
Status:
Confirmed
Confirmed
Date:
25 Jun 2026
25 Jun 2026
Location:
Council Chamber
Council Chamber
Meeting Attendees
Agenda
1
Election of Chairman
Minutes
RESOLVED: That Councillor Zoe Huggins be duly elected as Chairman for the municipal year 2026-27
2
Apologies
Minutes
There were none
3
Election of Vice Chairman
Minutes
RESOLVED: That Councillor Clare Bond be duly elected as Vice Chair for the municipal year 2026-27
4
Declarations of Interest
Minutes
Councillor Huggins declared non pecuniary interest in:
i) The Disability Union
ii) Headway
iii) Gosport Community Support
iv) Love Outdoors
v) Plan B
And a personal interest in The Rotary Club and the Temple of Venus
Councillor Chegwyn declared non pecuniary interest in Plan B and a personal interest in Gosport Community Support and The Rotary Club
Councillor Meenaghan declared a non pecuniary interest in Plan B
i) The Disability Union
ii) Headway
iii) Gosport Community Support
iv) Love Outdoors
v) Plan B
And a personal interest in The Rotary Club and the Temple of Venus
Councillor Chegwyn declared non pecuniary interest in Plan B and a personal interest in Gosport Community Support and The Rotary Club
Councillor Meenaghan declared a non pecuniary interest in Plan B
5
Minutes of previous meeting held on 5 March 2026
Attachments:
- Document Minutes Public Pack, 05/03/2026 Grants Sub-Board 17 Jun 2026
Minutes
RESOLVED: That the minutes of the meeting held on 5 March 2026 were signed as a true and correct record
The Chairman of the Housing Board was advised that Thirteeneight, a successful applicant from the previous Grants Sub Board meeting, had consulted with the previous Housing Chair and Head of Housing and they had consented to their project going ahead.
The Chairman of the Housing Board was advised that Thirteeneight, a successful applicant from the previous Grants Sub Board meeting, had consulted with the previous Housing Chair and Head of Housing and they had consented to their project going ahead.
6
Deputations
· (NOTE: The Board is required to receive a deputation(s) on a matter which is before the meeting of the Board provided that notice of the intended deputation and its object shall have been received by the Borough Solicitor by 12 noon on Tuesday 23 June. The total time for deputations in favour and against a proposal shall not exceed 10 minutes).
Minutes
There were no deputations but representatives had asked to speak on their applications
7
Public Questions
· (NOTE: The Board is required to allow a total of 15 minutes for questions from Members of the public on matters within the terms of reference of the Board provided that notice of such Question(s) shall have been submitted to the Borough Solicitor by 12 noon on Tuesday 23 June 2026).
Minutes
There were none
8
Community Grant Fund Applications
To provide the Sub Board with Community Fund grant applications in order that members can determine grant awards.
Attachments:
- Document Community Fund Board Report 25.06.26 17 Jun 2026
Minutes
The Chairman wished to advise that although there would probably be a change to the process of how future Community Grants would be allocated, a budget would still be there and applicants would still be able to submit requests. The new process would probably replace the political decision making process element. The work that the officers had put into the scheme was acknowledged.
Consideration was given to a report by the Head of Corporate Policy and Community Safety (HCPCS) providing the Sub Board with Community Fund grant applications in order that members can determine grant awards.
1. The Disability Union
The grant would be used to maintain the Sensory Superstars held at the Alver Valley Garden Centre, providing free sessions for up to 20 families per week, the majority of whom are Rowner based. The sessions are open to anyone regardless of ability. The applicant explained that the money would help sustain the service until news of a lottery bid was confirmed. The Best Start Family Hub would be attending a session which may result in the group becoming part of a hub.
Members suggested that the applicant looked to see if they were eligible to apply for Pride in Place funding.
Members agreed to award £1,628
2. Gentle Hearts
Members agreed that as they had questions for the applicant and as no one was present this bid should be deferred.
Members agreed to defer this application
3. Gosport Older Persons Forum
Although the applicant was not present they had been in contact to explain their absence. The Members felt that they were all aware enough of the work carried out by the Older Person Forum to make a decision and had no questions about the application.
Members agreed with one abstention to award £900
4. Future Steps Hampshire CIC
Members agreed that as they had questions for the applicant and as no one was present this bid should be deferred.
Members agreed to defer this application
5. Lee ICANGO
The applicant explained that Lee ICANGO runs a community mini bus service covering the whole peninsula and are celebrating their 20th anniversary. The grant would go towards replacing the oldest bus, and wanted to ensure it was fully accessible and met current compliance for low emissions.
Members were advised that they currently have 22 trained volunteers to run the buses and receive approximately 40 requests a month, for which there is a charge that has not been changed despite increasing costs of fuel.
Due to cuts in council run services there is more demand for community transport and they have supported other groups such as the Gosportarians and Community First.
Members agreed to award £5,000
6. Gosport Dolphins Swimming Club
The applicant advised that the club covers ages 3-17 and as well as learning how to swim, the attendees also gain benefits to their physical and mental health and confidence building through the Club Championships. The club also supports the Duke of Edinburgh awards scheme, level 1 teaching for 16 year olds.
As part of the 50th Anniversary Celebrations, past members will be approached for photos and memories. The Chairman offered to provide photos from her own time as a youth member.
Members agreed to award £850
7. Headway
The applicant explained that they provide a range of services for those who have been affected by acquired/traumatic brain injury and their families. The support begins in the hospital and is there for as long or whenever needed. Attendees can take part in a number of activities but it’s really the peer support and friendship that is most important.
The grant will pay for the room hire at BRWCA, a venue that provides the space and flexibility needed.
Members suggested approaching HCC Councillors for grant support and would put them in touch with the funding officer.
Members agreed to award £4,000
8. Level UP Gosport
The applicant explained that Level UP supports young people with additional needs as well as those experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety or low confidence.
The grant would be used to continue the Bricksey Trail, which is a free inclusive heritage trail across Gosport, by paying for the brochure and map, hosting of the website, and towards the facilitators.
Members agreed to award £2,208.88
9. Lee on the Solent Horticultural Society
The applicant explained that the society holds shows twice a year, inviting the public to view produce grown by members. They provide an opportunity to showcase the talents and dedication of the growers but also to promote gardening and its benefits in an accessible relaxed social setting.
There are also arts & crafts stalls and fun activities for children. Members were advised that volunteers go into schools to do demonstrations.
The grant will help pay the venue hire.
Members agreed to award £680
10. Gosport Community Support
Members were advised that the befriending, advocacy and practical support offered by Community Support had recently lost its funding, but the volunteers thought it too important a service to lose. A lottery grant application needs to be resubmitted, the only funds available to them have come from crowd funding, and money made at a launch event.
Members agreed to award £5,000
11. Love Outdoors CIC
The applicant explained that the grant would be used to facilitate “Sketch and Wander” a series of walking workshops across the parks and green spaces of Gosport. Activities may also include writing and storytelling. Each session will combine a gentle guided walk with creative activities all designed to encourage gentle movement and engagement with the green spaces and the community.
Members were advised that classes would number 15-20 open to all and mainly identified through the social prescribing network and referred by Solent Mind as well as through community hubs and social media. With refreshment stops part of the walk, the local coffee shops and cafes may benefit.
Members agreed to award £1,526
12. The Plan B AP CIC
Members were reminded that Plan B had run similar projects in Hardway over the years and they had a noticeable effect in reducing ASB levels in the area. The project would cover 9/10 days and would provide water based activities for young people, teaching not only the sports but also water safety, teamwork and respect for the neighbourhood. Previous children who had taken part are now employees showing the benefits of such schemes beyond the event.
The applicant advised that the programme of activities dovetails with those offered by the Summer Passport Scheme.
Members agreed to award £4,570
13. Gosport South Coast Scoffers FC
The applicants advised that their football club specifically targets men who are deemed overweight aged 20-55 in the Gosport area. As well as promoting healthy eating, mental health and fitness, it provides a safe space for those struggling to keep healthy, or whose lack of body confidence creates social isolation.
The grant would be used to provide kit reducing the financial burden on low income members.
Members agreed to award £1,000
14. WetwheelsSolent CIC
Members felt that this scheme needed to be more Gosport focused, and in the absence of the applicant to question, decided to refuse the application.
Members agreed not to make an award
RESOLVED: That the Sub Board:
Considered the applications in the report and agreed
1. A grant of £1,628 to be paid to The Disability Union
2. To defer the application from Gentle Hearts
3. A grant of £900 to be paid to Gosport Older Persons Forum
4. To defer the application from Future Steps Hampshire CIC
5. A grant of £5,000 to be paid to Lee ICANGO
6. A grant of £850 to be paid to Gosport Dolphins Swimming Club
7. A grant of £4,000 to be paid to Headway
8. A grant of £2,208.88 to be paid to Level UP Gosport
9. A grant of £680 to be paid to Lee on the Solent Horticultural Society
10. A grant of £5,000 to be paid to Gosport Community Support
11. A grant of £1,526 to be paid to Love Outdoors CIC
12. A grant of £4,570 to be paid to The Plan B AP CIC
13. A grant of £1,000 to be paid to Gosport South Coast Scoffers FC
14. No grant to be paid to Wetwheels Solent CIC
Consideration was given to a report by the Head of Corporate Policy and Community Safety (HCPCS) providing the Sub Board with Community Fund grant applications in order that members can determine grant awards.
1. The Disability Union
The grant would be used to maintain the Sensory Superstars held at the Alver Valley Garden Centre, providing free sessions for up to 20 families per week, the majority of whom are Rowner based. The sessions are open to anyone regardless of ability. The applicant explained that the money would help sustain the service until news of a lottery bid was confirmed. The Best Start Family Hub would be attending a session which may result in the group becoming part of a hub.
Members suggested that the applicant looked to see if they were eligible to apply for Pride in Place funding.
Members agreed to award £1,628
2. Gentle Hearts
Members agreed that as they had questions for the applicant and as no one was present this bid should be deferred.
Members agreed to defer this application
3. Gosport Older Persons Forum
Although the applicant was not present they had been in contact to explain their absence. The Members felt that they were all aware enough of the work carried out by the Older Person Forum to make a decision and had no questions about the application.
Members agreed with one abstention to award £900
4. Future Steps Hampshire CIC
Members agreed that as they had questions for the applicant and as no one was present this bid should be deferred.
Members agreed to defer this application
5. Lee ICANGO
The applicant explained that Lee ICANGO runs a community mini bus service covering the whole peninsula and are celebrating their 20th anniversary. The grant would go towards replacing the oldest bus, and wanted to ensure it was fully accessible and met current compliance for low emissions.
Members were advised that they currently have 22 trained volunteers to run the buses and receive approximately 40 requests a month, for which there is a charge that has not been changed despite increasing costs of fuel.
Due to cuts in council run services there is more demand for community transport and they have supported other groups such as the Gosportarians and Community First.
Members agreed to award £5,000
6. Gosport Dolphins Swimming Club
The applicant advised that the club covers ages 3-17 and as well as learning how to swim, the attendees also gain benefits to their physical and mental health and confidence building through the Club Championships. The club also supports the Duke of Edinburgh awards scheme, level 1 teaching for 16 year olds.
As part of the 50th Anniversary Celebrations, past members will be approached for photos and memories. The Chairman offered to provide photos from her own time as a youth member.
Members agreed to award £850
7. Headway
The applicant explained that they provide a range of services for those who have been affected by acquired/traumatic brain injury and their families. The support begins in the hospital and is there for as long or whenever needed. Attendees can take part in a number of activities but it’s really the peer support and friendship that is most important.
The grant will pay for the room hire at BRWCA, a venue that provides the space and flexibility needed.
Members suggested approaching HCC Councillors for grant support and would put them in touch with the funding officer.
Members agreed to award £4,000
8. Level UP Gosport
The applicant explained that Level UP supports young people with additional needs as well as those experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety or low confidence.
The grant would be used to continue the Bricksey Trail, which is a free inclusive heritage trail across Gosport, by paying for the brochure and map, hosting of the website, and towards the facilitators.
Members agreed to award £2,208.88
9. Lee on the Solent Horticultural Society
The applicant explained that the society holds shows twice a year, inviting the public to view produce grown by members. They provide an opportunity to showcase the talents and dedication of the growers but also to promote gardening and its benefits in an accessible relaxed social setting.
There are also arts & crafts stalls and fun activities for children. Members were advised that volunteers go into schools to do demonstrations.
The grant will help pay the venue hire.
Members agreed to award £680
10. Gosport Community Support
Members were advised that the befriending, advocacy and practical support offered by Community Support had recently lost its funding, but the volunteers thought it too important a service to lose. A lottery grant application needs to be resubmitted, the only funds available to them have come from crowd funding, and money made at a launch event.
Members agreed to award £5,000
11. Love Outdoors CIC
The applicant explained that the grant would be used to facilitate “Sketch and Wander” a series of walking workshops across the parks and green spaces of Gosport. Activities may also include writing and storytelling. Each session will combine a gentle guided walk with creative activities all designed to encourage gentle movement and engagement with the green spaces and the community.
Members were advised that classes would number 15-20 open to all and mainly identified through the social prescribing network and referred by Solent Mind as well as through community hubs and social media. With refreshment stops part of the walk, the local coffee shops and cafes may benefit.
Members agreed to award £1,526
12. The Plan B AP CIC
Members were reminded that Plan B had run similar projects in Hardway over the years and they had a noticeable effect in reducing ASB levels in the area. The project would cover 9/10 days and would provide water based activities for young people, teaching not only the sports but also water safety, teamwork and respect for the neighbourhood. Previous children who had taken part are now employees showing the benefits of such schemes beyond the event.
The applicant advised that the programme of activities dovetails with those offered by the Summer Passport Scheme.
Members agreed to award £4,570
13. Gosport South Coast Scoffers FC
The applicants advised that their football club specifically targets men who are deemed overweight aged 20-55 in the Gosport area. As well as promoting healthy eating, mental health and fitness, it provides a safe space for those struggling to keep healthy, or whose lack of body confidence creates social isolation.
The grant would be used to provide kit reducing the financial burden on low income members.
Members agreed to award £1,000
14. WetwheelsSolent CIC
Members felt that this scheme needed to be more Gosport focused, and in the absence of the applicant to question, decided to refuse the application.
Members agreed not to make an award
RESOLVED: That the Sub Board:
Considered the applications in the report and agreed
1. A grant of £1,628 to be paid to The Disability Union
2. To defer the application from Gentle Hearts
3. A grant of £900 to be paid to Gosport Older Persons Forum
4. To defer the application from Future Steps Hampshire CIC
5. A grant of £5,000 to be paid to Lee ICANGO
6. A grant of £850 to be paid to Gosport Dolphins Swimming Club
7. A grant of £4,000 to be paid to Headway
8. A grant of £2,208.88 to be paid to Level UP Gosport
9. A grant of £680 to be paid to Lee on the Solent Horticultural Society
10. A grant of £5,000 to be paid to Gosport Community Support
11. A grant of £1,526 to be paid to Love Outdoors CIC
12. A grant of £4,570 to be paid to The Plan B AP CIC
13. A grant of £1,000 to be paid to Gosport South Coast Scoffers FC
14. No grant to be paid to Wetwheels Solent CIC
9
Community Event Grant Fund Applications
To provide the Sub Board with Community Event Fund grant applications in order that members can determine grant awards.
Attachments:
- Document Events Fund Board Report 25.06.26 17 Jun 2026
Minutes
Consideration was given to a report by the Head of Corporate Policy and Community Safety (HCPCS) providing the Sub Board with Community Event grant applications in order that members can determine grant awards.
1. Elephant Dreamland Arts Programme
The applicant explained that the grant would be used to stage a photography and video exhibition the content of which would be created by young people of Gosport guided by a viral Instagram photographer. The participants would be identified through contacts within Motiv8 and secondary schools, including home schooled children. The title of the project is Street Spirit and would focus on overlooked areas of the town to find interesting images. This would provide an interesting perspective of the town as well as teaching photography skills.
Members suggested that although the Carpenters Yard is an excellent venue bringing the exhibition into the town centre might bring more footfall.
Members agreed to make an award and suggested they reapply to the Community Grant Fund for the balance.
Members agreed to award £3,500
2. Star Royalty UK CIC
The applicant advised that the grant would be used to pay the hire fee of Thorngate Halls, the insurance, sound system and the publicity leaflets for a pageantry event.
The event would be open to all to enter irrespective of any special needs or disabilities, with funds being available to support those on low income. Participation builds confidence, improves communication and provides a safe space to be celebrated for who they are.
Members were advised that the group is staffed by volunteers and they work closely with C2U who will run a tuck shop at the event.
Members agreed to award £1,500
3. The Temple of Venus
The applicant advised that there had been a project involving 15 local businesses and collaborators to create a documentary “Seeds to Bloom” showcasing stories of Gosport’s women past and present.
Members were advised that the grant would help fund a black tie event providing an opportunity to premiere the documentary. The invitees would include representatives from organisations such as National Lottery, Arts Council England and Hampshire Cultural Trust alongside key local stakeholders and community members, positioning Gosport as a place for high quality arts and heritage events.
Members agreed to award £2,315
4. Gosport Rotary Club
The applicant explained that the grant would help to fund two events, the Vehicle Rally and the Alverstoke Michaelmas Fayre. Both events have been held previously and attendance is growing. Additional stalls or activities will provide an even better event.
Members were advised that the organisers were providing a park and ride free bus service from the ferry for the Michaelmas Fayre.
Members were concerned that the grant enabled the Michaelmas Fayre to run at a profit which is then donated to local charities. It was agreed that the Funding manager would be approached to see if there were any other funding streams open to them.
Members agreed to award £7,500
RESOLVED: That the Sub Board:
Considered the applications in the report and agreed:
1. A grant of £3,500 to be paid to Elephant Dreamland Arts programme
2. A grant of £1,500 to be paid to Star Royalty UK CIC
3. A grant of £2,315 to be paid to The Temple of Venus
4. A grant of 7,500 £ to be paid to Gosport Rotary Club
1. Elephant Dreamland Arts Programme
The applicant explained that the grant would be used to stage a photography and video exhibition the content of which would be created by young people of Gosport guided by a viral Instagram photographer. The participants would be identified through contacts within Motiv8 and secondary schools, including home schooled children. The title of the project is Street Spirit and would focus on overlooked areas of the town to find interesting images. This would provide an interesting perspective of the town as well as teaching photography skills.
Members suggested that although the Carpenters Yard is an excellent venue bringing the exhibition into the town centre might bring more footfall.
Members agreed to make an award and suggested they reapply to the Community Grant Fund for the balance.
Members agreed to award £3,500
2. Star Royalty UK CIC
The applicant advised that the grant would be used to pay the hire fee of Thorngate Halls, the insurance, sound system and the publicity leaflets for a pageantry event.
The event would be open to all to enter irrespective of any special needs or disabilities, with funds being available to support those on low income. Participation builds confidence, improves communication and provides a safe space to be celebrated for who they are.
Members were advised that the group is staffed by volunteers and they work closely with C2U who will run a tuck shop at the event.
Members agreed to award £1,500
3. The Temple of Venus
The applicant advised that there had been a project involving 15 local businesses and collaborators to create a documentary “Seeds to Bloom” showcasing stories of Gosport’s women past and present.
Members were advised that the grant would help fund a black tie event providing an opportunity to premiere the documentary. The invitees would include representatives from organisations such as National Lottery, Arts Council England and Hampshire Cultural Trust alongside key local stakeholders and community members, positioning Gosport as a place for high quality arts and heritage events.
Members agreed to award £2,315
4. Gosport Rotary Club
The applicant explained that the grant would help to fund two events, the Vehicle Rally and the Alverstoke Michaelmas Fayre. Both events have been held previously and attendance is growing. Additional stalls or activities will provide an even better event.
Members were advised that the organisers were providing a park and ride free bus service from the ferry for the Michaelmas Fayre.
Members were concerned that the grant enabled the Michaelmas Fayre to run at a profit which is then donated to local charities. It was agreed that the Funding manager would be approached to see if there were any other funding streams open to them.
Members agreed to award £7,500
RESOLVED: That the Sub Board:
Considered the applications in the report and agreed:
1. A grant of £3,500 to be paid to Elephant Dreamland Arts programme
2. A grant of £1,500 to be paid to Star Royalty UK CIC
3. A grant of £2,315 to be paid to The Temple of Venus
4. A grant of 7,500 £ to be paid to Gosport Rotary Club
10
Heritage Fund Applications
To provide the Sub Board with Heritage Fund grant applications in order that members can determine grant awards.
Attachments:
- Document Heritage Fund Board Report 25.06.26 17 Jun 2026
Minutes
Consideration was given to a report by the Head of Corporate Policy & Community Safety (HCPCS) providing the Sub Board with Heritage Fund grant application in order that members can determine grant awards.
1. Portland Buildings
The applicant advised that they owned the building and had been running a dance school there for approximately 25 years. The windows need to be replaced and due to the conservation area they cannot be made of UPVC or metal but like for like wood which makes the project more expensive, and requires a more specialist contractor.
Members were advised that if the fees were increased to try and fund the project then it might be counter productive and lose some of those children on low income.
Members agreed to award £5,637
2. Barrack Block St. Georges Walk
Members were advised that this significant recognisable building in Gosport was owned by the 72 residents who have been putting funds aside for major projects such as the roofing repairs and insulation improvements.
The application advised that the owners were concerned that if the repairs were not carried out immediately not only would the damage worsen but costs would increase meaning they would never catch up. With limited firms wanting to do the work comparative quotes had been hard to obtain.
It was agreed to approach the Funding Officer to see if there were any suitable funds available elsewhere.
Members agreed not to make an award
RESOLVED: That the Sub Board:
Considered the applications in the report and agreed:
1. A grant of £5,637 to be paid to Portland Buildings
2. No grant to be paid to Barrack Block St. Georges Walk
1. Portland Buildings
The applicant advised that they owned the building and had been running a dance school there for approximately 25 years. The windows need to be replaced and due to the conservation area they cannot be made of UPVC or metal but like for like wood which makes the project more expensive, and requires a more specialist contractor.
Members were advised that if the fees were increased to try and fund the project then it might be counter productive and lose some of those children on low income.
Members agreed to award £5,637
2. Barrack Block St. Georges Walk
Members were advised that this significant recognisable building in Gosport was owned by the 72 residents who have been putting funds aside for major projects such as the roofing repairs and insulation improvements.
The application advised that the owners were concerned that if the repairs were not carried out immediately not only would the damage worsen but costs would increase meaning they would never catch up. With limited firms wanting to do the work comparative quotes had been hard to obtain.
It was agreed to approach the Funding Officer to see if there were any suitable funds available elsewhere.
Members agreed not to make an award
RESOLVED: That the Sub Board:
Considered the applications in the report and agreed:
1. A grant of £5,637 to be paid to Portland Buildings
2. No grant to be paid to Barrack Block St. Georges Walk
11
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Minutes
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