Residents and community groups in Kensington and Chelsea can now apply for Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) funding throughout the year, following changes to the Council’s application process.
The change sees funding decisions made every six months, with around £3 million available across the borough.
RBKC NCIL statement
NCIL is funded through contributions made by developers when certain developments take place in the borough. Some of this funding is used for infrastructure projects that benefit local communities.
This process was introduced in September and replaces the previous system of two six-week application windows. Residents and community groups no longer need to wait for a bidding round before putting forward a project idea.
The funding can support practical improvements to neighbourhoods, from cycle storage units to safer streets, CCTV instalments, pedestrian improvements and other community facilities.
Since 2021, the borough has helped fund over 250 projects through NCIL, including traffic-calming measures, community gardens, planting schemes and improvements to local facilities.
NCIL funded plant scheme
NCIL funded speed bumps
NCIL funded Oscar Wilde sculpture on Dovehouse Green
Projects must deliver a broad community benefit. Applications are assessed against the Council’s NCIL criteria and funding is not guaranteed. Applicants may be asked to provide evidence of community support, project costs and any permissions required. Funding decisions are made by ward councillors, and the amount available varies between wards.
Cllr Johnny Thalassites, Lead Member for Resident Services, Planning and Enforcement, said: “If you’ve ever walked past somewhere in your neighbourhood and thought of a way to improve it, NCIL could bring your idea to life. It might be a plan for a safer crossing, secure cycle parking, Christmas lights or a community space that needs freshening up.
“Residents know their areas best, and we want to help turn their good ideas into practical improvements that everyone can enjoy. And because those ideas don’t always arrive within a six-week window, we’re now welcoming applications all year round. Whenever inspiration strikes, we’re ready to hear about it.”
Further information about NCIL, including eligibility criteria and how to apply, is available on the Council’s NCIL consultation website. Applicants can contact the NCIL team at NCIL@rbkc.gov.uk or on 020 7361 3012.
