Issue details

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and Learning seeking approval for the long-term operation and management of the facilities on the Millbrook site.

Under the terms of the existing Short Term Lease, the Oasis Academy: Lord’s Hill will vacate the Millbrook site upon completion of the new buildings (currently scheduled for September 2012). On this basis, it is now necessary to make arrangements for the long-term operation and management of the facilities on the Millbrook site. The current proposal is that the majority of the buildings should be returned to SCC, for future use as Children’s Services facilities. However, there are three key exceptions to this, as detailed below:

·  Sports Hall and Ancillary Facilities – as these were built under a 21-year agreement with Sport England (on 1 July 1999), provision has to be made for its ongoing operation after the vacation of the site by the Academy. As such, it is proposed that a procurement is undertaken to secure a partner to operate these facilities (at least) until the expiration of the agreement.

·  Down to Earth Farm – it is proposed that this be leased to Oasis Community Learning on a rolling programme, at nil rent, in order that this facility can remain open as a useful community asset.

·  Motor Vehicle Workshop – it is proposed that this be leased to the Oasis Academy: Lord’s Hill on a rolling programme, at nil rent, in order that the corresponding educational provision can be sustained by the Academy.

The paper will seek Cabinet’s approval for the above-outlined course of action and to secure the necessary delegated authorities to undertake the various requisite actions.