Issue - meetings

Background:

This report advised Members of an opportunity to secure significant external investment into the Stirling Centre Rochester, one of Medway’s seven leisure centres.

It was reported that a third party provider had approached the Council with a proposal to take on the management of the Stirling Centre under a long-term lease. This would involve a significant level of investment into the site by the third party provider, with guarantees over enhancing community use, widening the hours the facility was open and the prices charged to the public.

The report evaluated the options available to the Council. It was recommended that the opportunity be offered to the open market with all responses evaluated to ensure the best possible position for Medway and leisure customers. It was anticipated that a development agreement, including clauses confirming the level of investment, scope of works and timescales for completion, would precede a long lease. Appendix 1 to the report set out the details of the principal terms and conditions.

It was noted that a Diversity Impact Assessment screening form had been completed and it was attached as Appendix 2 to the report. This considered existing access and use by the community, along with the potential impact of the proposal in enhancing service provision. It showed that a full Diversity Impact Assessment was not necessary.

Reasons:

To secure significant third-party investment into the facility, whilst continuing and enhancing community access with price guarantees.

The proposal will also achieve budget savings and minimise the Council’s future liability for ongoing maintenance costs.