Issue - meetings

Councillor Barnard

To consider a report on the grant of a new lease for the facility at the Pavilion, Ashford Recreation Ground, Clockhouse Lane, Ashford.

Cabinet considered a report seeking an in principle agreement to the grant of a new lease for the facility at the Pavilion, Ashford Recreation Ground, Clockhouse Lane, Ashford.

Dramatize, a community organisation who run theatrical workshops at the Pavilion for those with learning difficulties, had asked for a 15 year lease rather than a 3 year lease, due to the level of investment that they were planning to put into the building.

Alternative options considered and rejected by the Cabinet:

·         Option 2

To enter into a lease but for a shorter period of time.

·         Option 3

To enter into a lease but require a higher rent.

·         Option 4

Not to enter into a new lease and require Dramatize to find and relocate to new premises.

Resolved to:

1. approve in principle a new lease for the facility at the Pavilion, Ashford Recreation Ground, Clockhouse Lane, Ashford for a period of 15 years and on the terms set out in option 1 of the main report.

2. delegate authority to the Group Head Regeneration and Growth in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Planning, Economic Development and Fixed Assets to finalise details of the lease terms and to enter into the lease and associated licences for works.

Reason for decision

Renewal of this lease will enable a well-used community group to continue using the facility (and to extend it at their own cost). It will also bring in an on-going income stream for the Council next 15 years