Decision details

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Resources and Workforce Planning seeking approval for the grant of a new lease of Tower House to Aspace at less than the open market rental value.

Modified recommendation (i)

(i)  To approve the grant of a lease of Tower House to ASPACE at less than market rent on the terms set out in this report and in accordance with the amendment moved at this meeting.

(ii)  To delegate authority to the Head of Property and Procurement to finalise lease terms and to take all appropriate steps in consultation with the Solicitor to the Council to complete the lease.

Most of the accommodation at Tower House is currently surplus to Council requirements although Arts and Heritage require use of a couple of rooms. This agreement will mean Arts and Heritage can save on the outgoings whilst the future of the building is being decided.

1. Not to grant the lease. However this would leave Arts and Heritage with unnecessary additional outgoings, given that accommodation needs can mainly be met elsewhere in Arts and Heritage properties.
2. To allow other Council services to use the building. No interest has been expressed by other services. In addition, the building only minimally complies with DDA requirements and would be expensive to adapt for other Council uses for this short period.
3. To grant a lease on the open market. However it would be difficult to find a suitable tenant who is willing to take the accommodation for only a short period and to share that accommodation with Arts and Heritage and any such tenant is unlikely to take a lease of the accommodation without a substantial rent free period given its current condition.