Who can start a New Project?

Any member is entitled to suggest a new project.  However, it must fit with the aims set out for MCA by the Charity Commission.  These are:

•  To educate the public in the geography, history, natural history and architecture of the area of Matlock.
• The preservation, protection, development and improvement of buildings and other features of historic or public interest by promoting high standards of planning, design and architecture in or affecting Matlock.

It must show a clear benefit for the people of Matlock.

How are Projects Funded?

Matlock Civic Association has its own funds.  In future, it will also be able to apply for funding to the David Barker Bequest Charity, administered by Matlock Town Council.  In both cases, applicants are encouraged to look for other sources of funding (called “match” funding) to supplement these sources, especially if it is a costly project.  Other members of MCA may be able to suggest possible sources of match funding.

Even if it is intended to seek the funding from the David Barker Bequest Charity, administered by Matlock Town Council, it is necessary to get approval of the project from MCA as the MCA and DBB charity are considered as linked, with all of the DBB money originating with MCA. Its official approval by MCA should ease its passage through Matlock Town Council.

In order to qualify for funding, the expenditure needs to be justified. The level of information required for a project depends upon its complexity and cost. MCA is obliged by Charity Commission rules to follow a stepped expenditure approval procedure – the more expensive the project, the greater the level of information required.

Questions to be considered before you start

• If this project is on a particular site, who owns it and have you sought their agreement?
• Would this activity / proposed new feature require a licence / planning permission?
• Would this activity / proposed new feature cause inconvenience to neighbours, either in preparation or when completed?
• Are there any potential health and safety issues in completing this project?
• Could the project generate any positive or negative publicity?
• Who would take ownership of the project once completed and pay for any ongoing maintenance?
• Are there any potential health and safety issues

What do I need to do?

For any project propsal, the first step is to raise the idea of the project at one of the MCA monthly meetings.  You may not be aware of all of the requirements, e.g. it may require a licence, so please use that feedback to develop your plan. If the idea meets with general approval, you will be asked to go away and work up a written proposal. 

As described above, projects are considered at three different scales.

Minor Scale Projects; Less than £1000: If this is a small project, likely to cost less than £1000, the process is quite simple. Firstly raise the idea at a monthly meeting and note any feedback. The next would be to work up the proposal using Form 1, which includes guidance on the information needed and some questions to be considered.  This needs to be submitted, along with at least one quotation, for discussion at a subsequent monthly meeting of the MCA.  The proposer would be asked to explain the proposal and answer questions about it.  They may be asked to step outside while the proposal is discussed / voted upon.

Medium Scale Projects; >£1000 but <£5000:

Major Scale Projects; >£5000: