Decision details

The Cabinet Member with the Resources Portfolio introduced the report of the Director of Economic Growth and Neighbourhood Services (previously circulated) requesting that consideration be given to the release of capital funding allocated in the Capital Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) 2021/22 to 2024/25 for the purpose of carrying out capitalised repairs in corporate buildings; advanced design fees to bring forward regeneration projects and prepare sites for development; and for the purpose of carrying out energy saving measures in corporate buildings.

The submitted report requested the release of £250,000 allocated in 2021/22 Capital MTFP for Capitalised Repairs and essential remedial works; £150,000 for advanced design work to develop schemes to bring sites forward for development to create jobs and support the local economy; and the government grant of £443,313 to progress the proposed works to reduce gas consumption at the Town Hall and the Hippodrome.

Particular references were made at the meeting to the scheme to replace the existing heating system at the Town Hall and to the need to include information in future reports showing the effect that the Council’s initiatives were having on carbon impact and climate change.

RESOLVED – (a)  That the £250,000 allocated in the Capital Medium Term Financial Plan for Capitalised Repairs, as detailed in the submitted report, be released.

(b)  That the £150,000 of Advanced Design Fees to bring forward regeneration projects and to carry out necessary preparatory work on those development sites, as detailed in the submitted report, be released.

(c)  That the grant funding of £443,313 from the Heat Decarbonisation Scheme for energy saving measures at the Town Hall and Hippodrome, as detailed in the submitted report, be released.

REASONS – (a)  To safeguard the condition of the Council’s corporate buildings, reduce energy consumption and to meet statutory and legal obligations.

(b)  The Advanced Design Fees will enable progress to be made on bringing forward regeneration projects and sites for development.