Agenda item

12.1

The Executive Director, Place submitted a report seeking approval to spend funds from the Graves Park Charitable Trust (registered charity number 510841), in line with the Charity’s trusts and objects.

12.2

RESOLVED: That Cabinet, in its capacity as trustee of the Graves Park Charity, approve spending £115,643 from the Charitable Trust account, which includes the income from the sale of Cobnar Cottage, for the purposes listed in the report.

12.3

Reasons for Decision

12.3.1

To deliver the benefits listed in the report.

12.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

12.4.1

Option 1: Do nothing option

The funds held in the charitable account can only be spent at Graves Park. The funds could be left in the account and generate interest for use in the future. However the Council made a commitment to local people that the funds generated by the sale of Cobnar Cottage would be used to benefit the park and there is an expectation that there will be visible improvements to the site. This is therefore not the preferred option.

12.4.2

Option 2: Deliver the project as described in this report– this is the preferred option. This option delivers a range of improvements aimed at meeting the needs of all users of the park. The project will deliver the following benefits:

·         Improvements to the path network and entrances will ensure that the park is accessible and welcoming.

·         Improved toilet facilities in the sports area (Charles Ashmore Road entrance) will support the development of the tennis area as a Lawn Tennis Association priority site and encourage use new users to the bowling greens, pitch and putt and cricket pitch.

·         The project will deliver improvements to the play value of the park.

·         Investments in signage will encourage visitors to make full use of all of the activities available and improve the visitor experience.

·         The works will benefit the local and wider community and continue the commitment to quality green space.

12.5

Any Interest Declared or Dispensation Granted

None

12.6

Reason for Exemption if Public/Press Excluded During Consideration

None

12.7

Respective Director Responsible for Implementation

Simon Green, Executive Director, Place

12.8

Relevant Scrutiny and Policy Development Committee If Decision Called In

Economic and Environmental Wellbeing

12.1

The Executive Director, Place submitted a report seeking approval to spend funds from the Graves Park Charitable Trust (registered charity number 510841), in line with the Charity’s trusts and objects.

12.2

RESOLVED: That Cabinet, in its capacity as trustee of the Graves Park Charity, approves spending £115,643 from the Charitable Trust account, which includes the income from the sale of Cobnar Cottage, for the purposes listed in the report.

12.3

Reasons for Decision

12.3.1

To deliver the benefits listed in the report.

12.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

12.4.1

Option 1: Do nothing option

The funds held in the charitable account can only be spent at Graves Park. The funds could be left in the account and generate interest for use in the future. However the Council made a commitment to local people that the funds generated by the sale of Cobnar Cottage would be used to benefit the park and there is an expectation that there will be visible improvements to the site. This is therefore not the preferred option.

12.4.2

Option 2: Deliver the project as described in this report– this is the preferred option. This option delivers a range of improvements aimed at meeting the needs of all users of the park. The project will deliver the following benefits:

·         Improvements to the path network and entrances will ensure that the park is accessible and welcoming.

·         Improved toilet facilities in the sports area (Charles Ashmore Road entrance) will support the development of the tennis area as a Lawn Tennis Association priority site and encourage new users to the bowling greens, pitch and putt and cricket pitch.

·         The project will deliver improvements to the play value of the park.

·         Investments in signage will encourage visitors to make full use of all of the activities available and improve the visitor experience.

·         The works will benefit the local and wider community and continue the commitment to quality green space.