Issue - meetings

Elaine Clarke, Community Facilities Project Officer introduced the report.  She noted the comments made by the Scrutiny Committee for Leader, Finance and Performance on 19 May.  The proposed policy is not a new process but creates a framework for the leasing of council buildings to community organisations. 

The Deputy Leader emphasised that it is a framework to ensure transparency as the leases and uses of council owned buildings differ.  The policy will allow for some flexibility; the buildings must be in suitable locations and be regularly maintained.  The benefit of more public open space as part of the Burgess Hill Growth Programme was noted.

The Cabinet Member for Economic Growth welcomed the paper and advised that the policy builds on work of the Council consulting with Town and Parish Councils over the last few years. He commended the scrutiny process and asked for some clarification.  

The Community Facilities Project Officer confirmed that monitoring of ongoing maintenance would be carried out by the Estates Team, the policy will strengthen the Council’s ability to ensure buildings are maintained regularly.  The Head of Regulatory Services advised that the agreed Heads of Terms would also be reflected within the lease, and once the lease is signed any failings of the lessee could be a breach of the lease.

The Cabinet Member for Community advised that Mid Sussex has plenty of public open space as a result of careful planning over many years.  The management of these areas is important, and he welcomed the policy.

The Cabinet Member for Customer Services highlighted that the Council reserved the right to appoint a councillor as a nominated non-executive on the Board of the Lessee, and any new lease must be agreed by the Cabinet.

The Leader advised the policy would provide a useful framework when looking at expressions of interest to lease council buildings.  He took the Members to the recommendation which was agreed unanimously.

RESOLVED

Cabinet considered the Community Management and Asset Transfer Policy and the revisions suggested by the Scrutiny Committee for Leader, Finance and Performance and agreed the final draft which will be presented to Council for adoption.