Issue - meetings

Purpose of Report

To provide the Executive with an update on the present situation in relation to existing funding for equipped play areas, and to set out an offer that had potential to bring in external funding for one site through a partnership agreement.

Decision

That the proposal be approved, in principle, and the Director of Communities and Environment be authorised to agree suitable terms of lease.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

None.

Reason for Decision

It was noted that the Executive had received a report on this proposal in February 2018, however, there had been some developments since then and it was felt appropriate to provide the Executive with additional information relating to the proposal.

The Council had received an informal approach from Hartsholme Cricket and Social Club and Lincoln United to consider whether it would be prepared to allow them adopt the adjacent Keadby Close play area. The club had a new strategy for development, including much wider engagement with the local community and it believed that taking on the existing poorly equipped play area, and investing in it, would both help the local community and aid its strategy.

The club had requested a lease for the site, at nil cost, in return for which they would invest in the site, take on its maintenance commitments and maintain open public access.

Councillor Fay Smith, having attended the site with officers, was fully supportive of the proposal and reminded the Executive that this should not be considered as disposal of the site but was more about permitted use, due to the fact that the land would effectively be leased.