The report provides an update to the committee in relation to discussions that have taken place between bidders for the letting of Hutton Community Centre.

Members will be aware that against a background of potential co-operation between the two bidders, delegated authority was granted to the Head of Paid Service and Section 151 Officer to negotiate the terms of lease on Hutton Community Centre in consultation with a sub-committee comprising of the Chair and Vice-chair of the Policy, Finance and Resources Committee and a representative of the Liberal Democrat and Labour Groups.

Despite best efforts, agreement could not be reached between the two bidders with negotiations breaking down in February 2016.

Since that time officers have been considering the best solution for the residents of Brentwood, recognising the need to provide a solution that balances the financial return with the social needs of the area emphasising the strong links with the local community that are essential.

Members are advised that the Head of Paid Service issued advice (10 March 2016) to both bidders that the then existing bid process had been stopped, in line with the Council’s tender invitation.

Members are also advised that further information has been provided relating to the finances of the Hutton Community Centre Charitable Incorporated Organisation (HCC CIO).

A motion was MOVED by Cllr McKinlay and SECONDED by Cllr Kerslake to agree the recommendations in the report.

Cllr Aspinell MOVED an amendment to recommendation 2.1 to state:

That the Head of Paid Service together with the Section 151 Officer  in consultation with the sub-committee comprising of the Chair and Vice-chair of the Policy, finance and Resource Committee and a representative of the Liberal Democrat and Labour Groups be granted delegated authority to negotiate and subject to satisfactory conclusion of those negotiations grant the Hutton Community Centre Charitable Incorporated Organisation (HCC CIO) up to a 15 year lease. Negotiations will include the provision by HCC CIO of adequate terms of occupancy.

This amendment was accepted by the Chair.

After a full discussion a vote was taken by a show of hands and it was RESOLVED that:

1.         That the Head of Paid Service together with the Section 151 Officer  in consultation with the sub-committee comprising of the Chair and Vice-chair of the Policy, finance and Resource Committee and a representative of the Liberal Democrat and Labour Groups be granted delegated authority to negotiate and subject to satisfactory conclusion of those negotiations grant the Hutton Community Centre Charitable Incorporated Organisation (HCC CIO) up to a 15 year lease. Negotiations will include the provision by HCC CIO of adequate terms of occupancy.

2.         That Members note the lease will be at less than commercial value but recognises the social value that will be provided by HCC CIO.

REASON FOR RECOMMENDATION

The report provides a recommendation to allow Members to make an informed decision as to the granting of a lease of Hutton Community Centre.